Save to Pinterest I discovered these carrots by accident one autumn when my farmer's market haul included the most vibrant bunch I'd ever seen. Instead of roasting them plain, I raided my pantry for maple syrup and mustard, creating this glaze almost on a whim. The first bite was a revelation, and now they're the dish people ask me to bring.
I remember serving these at a potluck where a friend who claims to dislike vegetables kept sneaking more onto her plate. She finally asked for the recipe midway through the meal, which felt like the highest compliment I could receive.
Ingredients
- Carrots: Use 1 lb of fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds about the same size so they cook evenly.
- Pure maple syrup: The real thing makes all the difference; skip the pancake syrup imposters.
- Dijon mustard: This brings the tangy backbone that keeps the sweetness from being cloying.
- Olive oil: Just enough to help everything coat and caramelize without turning greasy.
- Apple cider vinegar: A splash that adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season as you taste during assembly, not before.
- Fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds: Optional but transformative when you want to feel fancy.
Instructions
- Heat your oven properly:
- Set it to 425°F and let it preheat fully while you prep, about 5 minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup becomes effortless.
- Build the glaze:
- Whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Taste it on your finger, it should make you smile.
- Coat the carrots evenly:
- Add your carrot pieces to the glaze and toss thoroughly until every piece glistens with that beautiful amber coating.
- Arrange on the sheet:
- Spread the carrots in a single layer, giving them room to breathe so they'll caramelize rather than steam.
- Roast and turn:
- Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring or turning the pan halfway through, until the edges are deeply caramelized and a fork passes through easily. You'll smell that maple-mustard sweetness getting deeper and richer.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer to a serving platter and scatter with fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds if you're feeling it. Serve while still warm so the glaze clings to each piece.
Save to Pinterest These carrots have a way of appearing on my table whenever someone needs gentle reminding that vegetables can be genuinely delicious. They've become the side dish that gets compliments equal to the main course.
Making Them Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how willing it is to adapt to your mood or what's in your pantry. Honey swaps in seamlessly for maple syrup if that's what you have, and a pinch of red pepper flakes turns everything up if you like a little heat with your sweet.
The Science of Caramelization
What makes these carrots shine is the Maillard reaction, a fancy way of saying the sugars and proteins brown together and create complex, deep flavors. That's why we roast hot and keep the carrots in a single layer, giving the heat room to work its magic.
Serving and Storage
These carrots are best served warm right from the oven, when the glaze is still slightly sticky and the carrots are at their most tender. They'll keep covered in the refrigerator for up to three days and actually improve in flavor as they sit.
- Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes to restore their warmth without drying them out.
- Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or any protein where they'll steal the show.
- They're equally at home on a vegetarian table or any meal that needs something honest and golden.
Save to Pinterest There's something deeply satisfying about transforming something as humble as a carrot into a dish that makes people pause mid-conversation. This recipe does exactly that, every single time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What temperature is best for roasting these carrots?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C) for optimal caramelization and tenderness.
- → Can I substitute honey for maple syrup in the glaze?
Yes, honey can be used as an alternative sweetener to achieve a similar glaze effect.
- → How do I ensure the carrots are evenly coated?
Whisk the glaze ingredients thoroughly and toss the carrots well in the mixture before spreading them on the baking sheet.
- → What is the purpose of apple cider vinegar in the glaze?
Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and enriches the flavor profile.
- → Can I add spices for extra flavor?
Yes, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice spicy kick if desired.