Description
Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots are an easy and elegant side dish, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich glaze of butter, maple syrup, and tangy Dijon mustard. Roasted to tender perfection and caramelized for a burst of flavor, these carrots make a flavorful and visually appealing addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally or left whole if slender
Glaze
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: freshly cracked black pepper, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.
- Prepare the carrots: Wash and peel the carrots. Slice them diagonally if they are thick, or leave them whole if they are slender, for even roasting and an attractive presentation.
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard, cooking for 1–2 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens to a glossy glaze. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.
- Coat the carrots: Place the prepared carrots on the lined baking sheet. Pour the maple mustard glaze over them and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Arrange the carrots in a single layer for uniform roasting.
- Roast the carrots: Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning the carrots once halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter. Season with salt to taste, and optionally add freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use slender carrots whole for a more elegant presentation and quicker cooking.
- Toss the carrots halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup to your preference.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based spread or olive oil.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
