Maple Orange Glazed Carrots are a delightful way to bring a burst of sweet, citrusy flavor to your table. This dish uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a perfectly roasted side that complements any main course. Ideal for holidays or any day you feel like elevating your dinner game.
Carrots are the star of the show, providing a natural sweetness and vibrant color. Using fresh, firm carrots will give you the best texture after roasting. Maple syrup lends a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the natural sugars in the carrots. Fresh orange juice brings a bright, tangy note that cuts through the sweetness for a balanced glaze. Butter adds a luscious, creamy element that helps the glaze adhere to the carrots. Brown sugar deepens the caramel notes and enhances the overall sweetness. Cinnamon provides a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness of the glaze. A touch of salt and black pepper balances out the flavors, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a final pop of color and freshness.
These Maple Orange Glazed Carrots are a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey. They also make a great accompaniment to a savory pork tenderloin or a hearty beef roast. For a vegetarian spread, serve them alongside a grain-based salad or a creamy risotto.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to getting that perfect caramelization on the carrots. While the oven heats up, peel your carrots and cut them into uniform sticks. This ensures they cook evenly, so you don’t end up with some pieces overdone while others are undercooked. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to promote even roasting.
Next, grab a small saucepan and combine the maple syrup, orange juice, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium until the butter melts and everything is well mixed. Give it a stir to make sure the sugar dissolves completely, then take it off the heat. Pour this fragrant glaze over your prepared carrots, making sure each piece gets a nice coating.
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a good stir around the pan. This helps them caramelize evenly and allows the glaze to envelop each piece. You'll know they're done when they're tender and have a lovely golden-brown color. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving.
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