maple roasted carrots

maple roasted carrots

Maple roasted carrots are a delightful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a touch of warmth and richness with maple syrup. This easy recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special holiday meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a side dish that’s sure to impress. So, let’s dive into this delectable maple roasted carrots recipe.

Ingredients:

1. Carrots – 1 pound (about 10-12 medium-sized carrots)
2. Maple Syrup – 1/4 cup
3. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
4. Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
5. Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
6. Fresh Thyme – 2-3 sprigs
7. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the carrots caramelize and become tender while preserving their natural flavors.
2. Start by peeling the carrots, or if you prefer, you can scrub them well to keep the skin for extra texture and nutrients. Trim off the tops and ends of the carrots.
3. If the carrots are large, cut them in half lengthwise. If they’re smaller, you can leave them whole for an elegant presentation.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. You can also add minced garlic at this stage for an extra layer of flavor. Mix these ingredients well to create the flavorful glaze.
5. Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat, ensuring they are in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly.
6. Drizzle the maple syrup mixture over the carrots, making sure they are well coated. Toss the carrots gently to ensure even distribution of the glaze.
7. Lay the fresh thyme sprigs over the carrots. Thyme pairs wonderfully with maple and carrots, infusing them with a fragrant herbal note.
8. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. You may want to toss them once or twice during roasting to ensure even cooking.
9. Once the carrots are beautifully roasted and have developed a golden-brown glaze, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two.
10. Before serving, remove the thyme sprigs and transfer the carrots to a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh thyme for a pop of color and aroma.

These maple roasted carrots are a fantastic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roast chicken to grilled salmon. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the richness of maple syrup makes for a memorable culinary experience.

Maple roasted carrots are not only delicious but also nutritious. Carrots are a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyes and skin. They also contain dietary fiber, providing digestive benefits. Meanwhile, maple syrup, in moderation, can be a healthier alternative to refined sugar, offering antioxidants and trace minerals like manganese and zinc.

In conclusion, maple roasted carrots are a simple yet elegant dish that will surely elevate your meal. The combination of sweet, savory, and herbal notes in this recipe makes it a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to any dinner table. So, the next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing, give these maple roasted carrots a try. Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your culinary adventure!