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Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots

Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots
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Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are a quick and easy side dish that balances sweet and savory flavors through caramelized brown sugar coating tender roasted carrots. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this versatile recipe enhances your meal with warmth, vibrant color, and a gourmet look.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh carrots, washed, peeled, and cut into sticks or rounds
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light brown recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (as a maple syrup swap instead of brown sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted pecans or walnuts (for nutty crunch garnish)
  • Zest of 1 orange or lemon (for citrus zest addition)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) to create a hot roasting environment that will caramelize the carrots beautifully.
  2. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel your carrots, then cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds to ensure uniform cooking.
  3. Toss with Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until every piece is lightly coated in the sweet-savory mixture. Add optional spices or sweeteners here if desired.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even roasting.
  5. Roast and Stir: Roast the carrots for about 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization and to prevent burning.
  6. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve: Once the carrots are tender and golden, sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Transfer immediately to a serving dish to enjoy their full flavor and warmth. Garnish with optional nuts or citrus zest as preferred.

Notes

  • Choose carrots of uniform size to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; leave space so carrots caramelize instead of steam.
  • Use light brown sugar for a moist texture and subtle molasses flavor without overpowering sweetness.
  • Check the carrots periodically while roasting, stir halfway through, and adjust time according to your oven’s performance.
  • A quick squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens and lifts the flavors beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar roasted carrots, caramelized carrots, sweet and savory side dish, healthy roasted carrots, gluten free side dish, vegan roasted carrots

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/brown-sugar-roasted-carrots/