These maple glazed carrots are a sweet and tasty side dish! They get a lovely shine from the maple syrup, making them extra appealing on your plate.
Making these carrots is super easy. Just simmer them in a bit of maple syrup and butter, and you’ll have a colorful dish that everyone will love. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters can’t resist that sweet flavor! 🥕🍁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are sweet and tender, but you can use regular carrots too! Just peel and cut them into similar-sized pieces. If you’re looking for variety, try using colorful carrots for a fun appearance.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is best for its rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use honey or agave syrup for sweetness, but the taste will change a bit.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option, maintaining that delicious flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary adds a great herbal note. If you don’t have it, thyme or parsley can work well too. Dried herbs can be used, but use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Get the Best Roasted Carrots?
Roasting carrots to perfection enhances their natural sweetness and makes them tender. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure the carrots are evenly coated in butter and syrup; this helps with caramelization.
- Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding will lead to steaming, not roasting.
- Toss the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end. You want them tender and slightly charred for maximum flavor!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves (optional, for garnish/flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Flaky sea salt, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of roasting time, making the total around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare it for roasting the carrots to perfection.
2. Toss the Carrots:
In a large bowl, take your baby carrots (or cut regular carrots) and pour in the melted butter and maple syrup. Toss everything together until the carrots are well coated. This mix will give your carrots their delicious glaze!
3. Prepare for Roasting:
Next, spread the coated carrots across a baking sheet in a single layer. If you’re using fresh rosemary, sprinkle the leaves on top for added flavor.
4. Roast the Carrots:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the carrots for about 25-30 minutes, tossing them once halfway through. You want them to be tender and caramelized. Keep an eye on them towards the end for that perfect golden color.
5. Season and Serve:
Once they’re done roasting, take the carrots out of the oven. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you have any pan juices left, drizzle them over the carrots. Finally, transfer the carrots to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
6. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy the delightful sweet and savory side dish that pairs wonderfully with any main course.
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before tossing them in the maple and butter mixture. This will help the glaze stick better and prevent excess moisture during roasting.
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be good alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but they’ll still add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
Can I Make These Carrots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the carrots by tossing them in the butter and syrup, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just take them out to reach room temperature and then roast as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until heated through. A splash of water can help refresh them if they seem a bit dry.
