The Perfect Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots Recipe You’ve Been Missing
When I first tried making these Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such an impressive dish. The balance of sweet maple and tangy mustard brings the carrots to life.
It’s a recipe I keep coming back to because it’s so easy and flavorful. If you’re looking for other unique dishes to try, you might also want to explore our guide for a Grilled Vegetable Wraps with Hummus Recipe.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. Each one plays a specific role in creating that unforgettable sweet and savory glaze.
- Butter (4 tbsp): Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. It adds a rich, silky texture that helps the glaze coat every carrot perfectly.
- Maple syrup (3 tbsp): Pure maple syrup is a must for its deep, authentic sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- Grainy mustard (2 tbsp): This adds a wonderful texture and a mild, tangy pop of flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): For a smooth, sharp kick that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon juice (1 tsp): A touch of fresh lemon juice brightens everything up and cuts through the richness.
- Kosher salt (½ tsp): This enhances all the individual flavors, making them more vibrant.
- Pepper (¼ tsp): Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth to round out the glaze.
- Carrots (2 lb): Fresh, firm carrots are the star. Their natural sugars are brought out during the roasting process.
Note: The ingredients listed above will yield approximately 4 servings.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Baking Sheet: To spread the carrots in a single layer for even roasting.
- Small Saucepan: For melting the butter and whisking together the glaze ingredients.
- Vegetable Peeler: To quickly and efficiently peel the carrots.
- Whisk: For combining the glaze ingredients into a smooth, emulsified mixture.
- Serving Platter: To present your beautifully roasted carrots at the table.
How to Make Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots
Making this dish is straightforward and rewarding. The process involves creating a simple glaze, coating the carrots, and roasting them until they are tender and perfectly caramelized. Follow these steps for a flawless result every time.
Step 1: Create the Flavorful Glaze
First, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, remove it from the heat and whisk in the maple syrup, grainy mustard, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Prepare and Coat the Carrots
Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash, peel, and trim the green tops off your carrots. Place them on a large baking sheet and pour most of the glaze over them, saving a tablespoon or two for later. Toss the carrots gently to ensure they are all evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly instead of steaming. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes. Stir them once halfway through to prevent the glaze from burning and to promote even caramelization. The carrots are done when they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Finish and Serve Warm
Once the carrots are tender and beautifully glazed, remove them from the oven. Transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top for an extra shine and burst of flavor. It’s best to serve them immediately while they are warm and the glaze is at its most luscious.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Over the times I’ve made this dish, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even more spectacular.
- I find that if you have very thick carrots, slicing them in half lengthwise helps them cook more evenly and at the same rate as the thinner ones.
- Don’t be afraid to let the carrots get a little charred on the edges. Those dark, caramelized bits are where the flavor is most intense.
- If your glaze seems to be browning too quickly, I suggest loosely covering the pan with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Variations to Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also highly adaptable. You can easily tweak it to suit different dietary needs or to create new flavor combinations for your dinner recipes.
- Dairy-Free: Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or use olive oil for a slightly different, yet equally delicious, flavor.
- Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with the carrots before roasting.
- Nut-Free: If you plan on adding a crunchy topping, use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
Calories Count
Here are the approximate nutritional facts for one serving of Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots.
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
How to Store Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots
Leftovers are just as delicious, and proper storage will keep them fresh.
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the roasted carrots for up to two months, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the carrots in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
How to Serve Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots
Serving these carrots is all about highlighting their beautiful color and glossy glaze. A few simple additions can turn this simple side into a showstopper.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the top for a touch of green and fresh flavor. For a delightful crunch, add some toasted sliced almonds or a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Side Dishes: These carrots are a perfect companion for roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a Thanksgiving turkey. They also pair wonderfully with a hearty grain bowl or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Creative Presentation: Arrange the carrots on a long, narrow platter for a dramatic effect at a dinner party. You can also serve them alongside our delicious Mini Taco Cupcakes with Zesty Ground Beef and Cheese Recipe for a complete meal experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to make these carrots a staple in your kitchen. Here are just a few:
- Incredibly Easy: With minimal prep and simple steps, it’s a perfect recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
- Full of Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze creates a complex flavor profile that elevates simple carrots.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant orange and glossy glaze make for a beautiful presentation on any table.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs well with almost any main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
More About This Delicious Recipe
The key to perfect roasted carrots is giving them enough space on the baking sheet. If they are too crowded, they will steam instead of roast, and you won’t get those delicious caramelized edges.
Also, using high-quality, pure maple syrup makes a significant difference in the final taste. The robust, nuanced sweetness of real maple syrup can’t be matched by artificial substitutes. This dish is a fantastic way to get anyone to eat their vegetables
Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- First, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, remove it from the heat and whisk in the maple syrup, grainy mustard, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined.
- Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash, peel, and trim the green tops off your carrots. Place them on a large baking sheet and pour most of the glaze over them, saving a tablespoon or two for later. Toss the carrots gently to ensure they are all evenly coated.
- Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly instead of steaming. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes. Stir them once halfway through to prevent the glaze from burning and to promote even caramelization. The carrots are done when they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork.
- Once the carrots are tender and beautifully glazed, remove them from the oven. Transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top for an extra shine and burst of flavor. It’s best to serve them immediately while they are warm and the glaze is at its most luscious.