Honey Maple Roasted Carrots

Honey Maple Roasted Carrots

These honey maple roasted carrots are the kind of side dish that makes people stop mid-meal and ask what you did to make something as simple as carrots taste so incredible. The combination of honey, maple syrup, olive oil, coriander, sea salt, and pepper creates a caramelized finish that is deeply flavorful with a glossy appearance that looks beautiful on any table.

Before diving into the ingredients and instruction list, let us set up the basic timing information that home cooks appreciate.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced on a long angle into pieces approximately 3 inches long
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh chives
• ½ cup pomegranate arils or seeds

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 450°F and lightly oil a sheet pan.

Step 2

Place carrots on the prepared pan and drizzle with olive oil, maple syrup, and honey. Sprinkle with coriander, sea salt, and pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly, spreading carrots into a single even layer.

Step 3

Roast for 10 minutes. Stir to redistribute.

Step 4

Return to the oven and roast for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Carrots are done when tender with caramelized edges.

Step 5

Sprinkle sesame seeds and herbs over carrots and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning. Transfer to a serving bowl and scatter with pomegranate arils.

Pro Tips For Honey Maple Roasted Carrots

1. Choose medium sized carrots for best caramelization. Very thin carrots cook too quickly while extra large ones contain tough cores that interfere with texture.
2. Prep the carrots early. You can peel and slice them the day before, store them chilled, and roast right before your meal.
3. Do not skip coriander. Even if you do not like cilantro, coriander seed has a bright citrus like flavor that enhances sweetness and complexity.
4. For whole coriander seeds, crush them yourself instead of using ground. You will get more aroma and intensity.
5. If making ahead, roast until slightly under caramelized, then reheat briefly at high heat right before serving. This preserves texture and deepens the glaze.

Serving Suggestions And Pairings

Honey maple roasted carrots pair well with many main dishes because they walk the line between savory and sweet. Their caramelized finish and warm spice profile complement roasted meats, poultry, and plant based entrees beautifully.

Serve these carrots with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, glazed ham, herbed turkey breast, or seared salmon. The subtle sweetness also pairs well with beef tenderloin or prime rib, especially during holiday meals.

For vegetarian or vegan pairings, serve them alongside lentil loaf, quinoa pilaf, mushroom bourguignon, or roasted cauliflower steak. These carrots also add contrast to grain bowls or salads that feature bitter greens like kale or arugula.

They also work well as part of a Thanksgiving spread, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck buffet. Their vivid orange color and glossy finish instantly brighten any table.

Nutrition Table

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	153
Carbohydrates	25 g
Protein	1 g
Fat	5 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	16 g

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