Prepare to transform the humble carrot from a simple side dish into a show-stopping culinary sensation! These Sweet and Smoky Carrots are not just a vegetable—they're a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your dinner table. Imagine tender, caramelized carrots with a perfect balance of sweetness and smoky depth that will have your family and guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Slice them diagonally into uniform pieces, approximately 1/2-inch thick to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced carrots with olive oil, ensuring each carrot piece is evenly coated. This will help promote even roasting and prevent burning.
- Sprinkle brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the carrots. Toss carefully to distribute the seasonings uniformly, coating each carrot piece completely.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation and achieve a crispy exterior.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking time to promote even browning and caramelization.
- Remove from oven when carrots are tender and edges are slightly crisp and caramelized. The sugars should be lightly charred and the carrots should have a deep, rich color.
- Let the carrots rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow residual heat to finish cooking and flavors to settle.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Carrots: Select fresh, firm carrots with vibrant color for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Cutting: Slice carrots to the same thickness (about 1/2-inch) to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your carrots breathing room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- High Heat is Key: The 425°F temperature is crucial for achieving those delicious caramelized edges.
- Stir Midway: Halfway through cooking, give the carrots a quick stir to promote even browning.
- Watch the Sugars: The brown sugar will create a beautiful caramelization, but keep an eye out to prevent burning.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
