Imagine transforming ordinary carrots into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and guests begging for seconds! These Maple Ginger Glazed Oven Roasted Carrots are not just a side dish; they're a flavor explosion that combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the warm, spicy kick of fresh ginger. Perfect for those looking to elevate their vegetable game with minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe will turn even the most reluctant veggie eaters into carrot enthusiasts.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, sliced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even roasting.
- Wash and peel the carrots, then slice them diagonally into approximately 2-inch long pieces to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, grated fresh ginger, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well incorporated.
- Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring each carrot piece is evenly coated with the maple-ginger mixture.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with additional olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and caramelization.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork - carrots should be tender but still have a slight bite and golden-brown edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set and flavors to meld.
- Transfer to a serving dish and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional grated ginger for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor. Look for carrots that are bright orange and free from soft spots.
- Cut carrots uniformly to ensure even roasting. Diagonal cuts not only look professional but help create more surface area for the delicious glaze.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each carrot piece space to caramelize properly, which creates those irresistible crispy edges.
- Use a high-quality maple syrup for the most robust flavor. Pure maple syrup will give you the best results.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle heat.
- If you prefer softer carrots, roast for an additional 5 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Fresh ginger is key - avoid using dried ginger powder for this recipe to get that bright, zesty flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
