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Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

This article focuses on creating perfectly Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from selecting the best carrots to achieving that irresistible sweet and savory glaze. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight side dish but elegant enough for a holiday feast. We’ll cover ingredient selection, step-by-step instructions, a detailed recipe card and nutrition information, and frequently asked questions to ensure your success. Get ready to transform humble carrots into a culinary delight!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (baby carrots also work!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Choosing Your Carrots: Look for carrots that are firm and brightly colored. Avoid carrots that are limp or have cracks. You can use regular carrots or baby carrots. If using regular carrots, be sure to peel them thoroughly. For a more rustic look, leave a bit of the green stem attached.

Selecting the Honey: The type of honey you use will influence the final flavor. A mild honey, like clover or wildflower, will provide a subtle sweetness. A stronger honey, like buckwheat or manuka, will add a more intense flavor. Experiment to find your favorite!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Roasting to Perfection

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to caramelizing the carrots and creating that delicious roasted flavor.
2. Prepare the Carrots: In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure the carrots are evenly coated in the glaze.
3. Roast the Carrots: Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the carrots instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Check the carrots after 15 minutes and toss them to ensure even cooking.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Card: Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots

Here’s a quick reference for the recipe:

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20-25 minutes | Total Time: 30-35 minutes | Category: Side Dish | Method: Roasting | Cuisine: American

Tips for the Best Roasted Carrots

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: As mentioned earlier, overcrowding the pan will steam the carrots instead of roasting them. This will result in soft, mushy carrots instead of the caramelized, tender carrots you’re looking for.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the carrots from sticking.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey.
• Add a kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Experiment with herbs: Thyme is a classic choice, but rosemary, sage, or oregano also work well.

Variations and Additions

Want to customize your Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots? Here are a few ideas:

• Add other vegetables: Toss in some parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a medley of roasted vegetables.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the carrots before roasting.
• Add cheese: Crumble some goat cheese or feta cheese over the roasted carrots for a tangy twist.
• Add balsamic glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the roasted carrots for a sweet and tangy finish.

Nutrition Card: Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots (per serving)

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: 120 | Sugar: 8g | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 16g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 1g | Yields: 4 servings

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use baby carrots! They’re a convenient option and require less prep time. Just be sure to toss them with the glaze and roast them until tender.

How do I prevent the carrots from burning?

Keep an eye on the carrots while they’re roasting. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly or cover the baking sheet with foil for the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the carrots ahead of time and reheat them before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or in a skillet over medium heat.

What other spices can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different spices! Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cinnamon can all add a unique flavor dimension to your Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup is a great substitute for honey. It will provide a similar sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile. Use the same amount of maple syrup as you would honey.

I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family great food is meant to be shared!

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