Which type of vegetables includes beets and carrots?

Root vegetables are those that develop underground from the root of the plant. Beets and carrots are prime examples of this category because they store nutrients in their taproots, allowing them to thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Root vegetables are typically characterized by their dense, earthy flavors and are often used in both raw and cooked dishes.

In contrast, leafy vegetables come from the green, leafed parts of plants and would typically include items such as spinach and lettuce. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, are part of the Brassica family and have distinct flower structures. Fruiting vegetables refer to the edible fruits of the plant, like tomatoes and cucumbers, which develop from the flowering part of the plant. Each of these categories has specific characteristics that distinguish them from root vegetables, underscoring the unique role that beets and carrots play in culinary applications.