Winter carrots, especially the red variety found in India, are sweeter and more tender than their year-round counterparts. They are richer in colour, often a vibrant red or deep orange, indicating higher levels of beta-carotene, which boosts their nutritional value. These carrots are also more tender and have a juicier texture, making them ideal for raw consumption and quick cooking. Their flavour profile is earthy and robust and they are naturally more aromatic.
Video Credit: Hebbar's Kitchen
Their natural sweetness complements the bold spices used in Indian cooking, making them a versatile ingredient in both savoury and sweet dishes. Whether grated, diced, or pureed, carrots adapt beautifully to a range of preparations, from quick stir-fries to elaborate desserts.
Slurrp put together a list of few dishes that demonstrate the versatility of carrots in Indian cuisine, showcasing their ability to shine beyond the beloved and popular gajar ka halwa. From hearty parathas to tangy pickles and fragrant pulaos, winter carrots bring colour, flavour, and nutrition to the table. As the temperature drops, these dishes offer warmth and comfort, making the most of this seasonal special vegetable. So, the next time you pick up a bunch of winter carrots, think beyond halwa and explore the many ways they can transform your meals.
Carrot Paratha
Carrot paratha is a flatbread stuffed with a spiced carrot filling. Grated carrots are sautéed with cumin, green chillies, and garam masala before being encased in whole wheat dough. These parathas are rolled out and cooked on a tawa with a drizzle of ghee. Served with yoghurt or pickle, carrot parathas are a wholesome breakfast or lunch option, offering warmth and nutrition during chilly winter days.
Carrot Sambar
In South India, carrots find their way into sambar, a tangy and spicy lentil-based stew. Chopped carrots are simmered with toor dal (pigeon peas), tamarind, and a medley of spices, including coriander, cumin, and mustard seeds. The natural sweetness of carrots balances the tanginess of tamarind, making it a perfect dish to pair with steamed rice or dosa.
Carrot Kosambari
Carrot kosambari is a refreshing salad that showcases the natural sweetness of carrots. Grated carrots are combined with soaked moong dal, green chillies, and a squeeze of lime. A tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves in coconut oil adds depth to the dish. Often served as part of a festive meal, kosambari is light, healthy, and a great way to enjoy raw winter carrots.
Carrot Thoran
Thoran is a dry vegetable preparation from Kerala, and carrots are a popular choice for this dish. Finely chopped carrots are stir-fried with grated coconut, curry leaves, and a tempering of mustard seeds. A touch of turmeric and green chillies adds flavour and colour. Carrot thoran is often served as a side dish with steamed rice and dal, making it a staple in traditional Kerala meals.
Carrot Pulao
Carrot pulao is a fragrant one-pot rice dish that highlights the sweetness of carrots. Long-grain basmati rice is cooked with grated or diced carrots, whole spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and a handful of peas. The dish is often garnished with fried cashews and fresh coriander, adding texture and aroma. Carrot pulao is a popular choice for a light winter lunch or dinner, paired with raita or a simple curry.
Pickled Carrots
Winter carrots are often pickled in North India to preserve their freshness and add a burst of flavour to meals. Carrot sticks are marinated in a mix of mustard oil, salt, turmeric, and spices like fennel, nigella seeds, and red chili powder. The pickles are left to mature for a few days, developing a tangy and spicy profile. These pickled carrots are a perfect accompaniment to parathas or dal-rice, adding zing to winter meals.
Carrot Soup
Carrot soup, though not traditionally Indian, has gained popularity in recent years as a winter warmer. Carrots are blended with ginger, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander to create a creamy, flavourful soup. A drizzle of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt adds richness, while fresh coriander leaves provide a hint of freshness. This modern take on carrots is a healthy, comforting dish for cold evenings.