Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots

Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots is a simple yet delicious dish to make. The carrots turn sweet, and the glaze gives them a wonderful flavor. This recipe is ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy meal at home. The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and maple syrup will fill your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely texture.

These glazed roasted carrots are not just tasty; they also look beautiful on a plate. Their vibrant orange color brightens up any meal. Plus, they are very easy to make. Even if you are new to cooking, you can prepare this dish successfully. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables, especially for kids who might be picky eaters.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe is special for many reasons. First, it is incredibly simple. You do not need many ingredients, and the steps are easy to follow. The main ingredient, carrots, is usually available, and you may already have the other ingredients at home.

Second, the flavors are amazing. The apple cider adds a burst of sweetness, while the cinnamon and rosemary provide warmth and a hint of earthiness. Together, these flavors make the carrots irresistible.

Third, these glazed carrots are healthy. Carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a great choice for a side dish. The addition of pumpkin seeds not only adds a nice crunch but also provides healthy fats and proteins.

Lastly, this dish is very adaptable. You can serve it on special occasions or as a casual side. The colors and flavors make it a great addition to any meal, from holiday dinners to everyday lunches.

HOW TO MAKE Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots

Ingredients:

• 6 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1/2 cup unfiltered apple cider
• 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 1/2 Tbsp avocado oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (to taste)
• 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Glaze:
   • Begin by reducing the apple cider. Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan.
   • Add the pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and dried rosemary to the pan.
   • Heat to medium-high and bring to a full boil.
   • Continue boiling and whisking occasionally until the mixture reduces to about ⅔ of its original volume. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • Once the cider has reduced, whisk in the avocado oil and sea salt until well combined.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
4. Prepare the Carrots:
   • Peel and chop the carrots into even pieces.
   • Spread the chopped carrots on a large baking sheet.
5. Combine Carrots and Glaze:
   • Pour the glaze mixture over the carrots.
   • Use your hands to toss everything together, ensuring that the carrots are well-coated in the glaze.
6. Roast the Carrots:
   • Bake the carrots for 15 minutes.
   • Stir the carrots and then bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. You want the carrots to be golden brown and fully cooked through.
7. Add Pumpkin Seeds:
   • About 3 to 5 minutes before the carrots are finished roasting, add the raw pumpkin seeds to allow them to roast as well.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooked, take the carrots out of the oven. Serve them alongside your favorite meals and enjoy the delicious flavors!

 

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots

Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots can be served in many ways. They go well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, and even vegetarian dishes. The sweet and savory flavor makes them a perfect side dish for any main course.

You can serve them warm or at room temperature. They also taste great the next day, making them a good option for leftovers. If you have a special meal, place these carrots on a nice platter to impress your guests. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add an extra touch.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots

If you have leftovers, you can store Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat them, just reheat them in the oven or microwave.

For freezing, let the carrots cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. These carrots can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can serve Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots with a variety of dishes. Here are some great pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: The sweet glaze from the carrots complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken nicely.
• Pork Chops: The sweetness of the carrots works wonderfully with the savory taste of pork.
• Quinoa Salad: Toss roasted carrots into a quinoa salad for added flavors and textures.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Pair these carrots with roasted vegetables or a hearty grain dish for a complete vegetarian meal.

VARIATIONS

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Different Spices: Instead of rosemary, try thyme or sage for a different herb flavor.
• Mix Other Vegetables: You can add sweet potatoes or parsnips to the carrots for variety.
• Try Different Nuts: Instead of pumpkin seeds, you could use pecans or walnuts for a different texture.
• Change the Sweetener: Instead of maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup for sweetness.

FAQs

What kind of carrots should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of carrots, but large, fresh, and sweet carrots are best.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Chop the carrots right before roasting for the best texture.

How do I know when the carrots are done?

The carrots should be golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it is unfiltered for the best flavor.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots

You can make some parts of this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the apple cider glaze in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also chop the carrots a few hours before cooking. Keep them in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from drying out.

On the day you want to serve the carrots, simply toss them with the glaze and roast them in the oven. This way, you save time during meal prep and enjoy fresh, flavorful roasted carrots!

 

 

 

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