These maple glazed carrots are sweet and shiny, making them a fun side dish everyone loves. The maple syrup adds a yummy twist that makes your taste buds dance!
Honestly, who knew carrots could be this exciting? I often find myself nibbling on them straight from the bowl. They’re so easy to make that I whip them up whenever we have dinner guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: Baby carrots are sweet and cook quickly. If you can’t find them, regular carrots work too; just cut them into sticks or coins. I find that leaving the tops on adds a nice touch when serving!
Unsalted Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor, but you can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option. I’ve tried both, and each brings its unique taste to the dish!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a wonderful sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-cost option, you can use honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will change slightly.
Thyme: Fresh thyme pairs perfectly with carrots, but dried thyme works in a pinch. A good rule of thumb is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
How Do I Roast Carrots to Perfection?
Roasting carrots is easy but requires attention to detail for the best results. The goal is to achieve a tender inside with a caramelized outside. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the carrots uniformly so they cook at the same rate.
- A single layer on the baking sheet is key. This helps them roast instead of steam.
- Remember to turn them halfway through. This ensures even browning.
With these tips and steps, you’ll get perfectly roasted, maple-glazed carrots that are sure to impress!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 pound baby carrots (with or without tops)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional: flaky sea salt for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 25 minutes to roast. So, you’re looking at around 35 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is important for even cooking and to achieve that lovely caramelization on your carrots.
2. Prepare the Carrots:
If your baby carrots have tops, trim them to leave about 1 inch of stem—this makes them look nice on the plate. Rinse the carrots under water and dry them well with a towel. This helps to ensure they roast nicely without excess moisture.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, place the cleaned baby carrots. Add in the melted butter, pure maple syrup, salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss everything together until the carrots are well-coated in the delicious mixture.
4. Arrange the Carrots:
Spread the coated carrots out on a lined or greased baking sheet in a single layer. Be sure they are not overcrowded; this will help them roast properly and get that nice caramelization.
5. Roast Them:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Remember to turn the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they are done when they are tender and beautifully caramelized.
6. Final Touches:
Once roasted, carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven. Transfer the carrots to a serving platter and spoon any remaining glaze from the tray over them. This adds another layer of delicious flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some flaky sea salt and any extra thyme leaves on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve the carrots warm as a delightful side dish that everyone will enjoy!
By following these steps, you’ll have an inviting dish of maple glazed carrots that’s not only tasty but also adds a lovely color to your meal. Enjoy this sweet, glossy treat!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you can’t find baby carrots, you can use regular carrots. Just peel them and cut them into uniform sticks or rounds to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The maple syrup is already vegan, so you’re good there!
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup. Keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare These Carrots in Advance?
You can prepare the carrots ahead of time by washing and cutting them, then storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just toss them with the glaze and roast when you’re ready to serve!
