Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a warm and vibrant side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your table, look no further than maple roasted carrots with cranberries. This delightful recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially during the holiday season. The combination of tender, caramelized carrots and tart cranberries drizzled with rich maple syrup creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just want to brighten up a busy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

The best part? Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not only delicious but also super easy to make! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: You can have these roasted carrots ready in just about 35 minutes!
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Perfect for family gatherings where dietary preferences vary.
• Festive flair: They add color and flavor to any holiday table, making them an excellent choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Make-ahead option: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and roast them just before serving for an effortless side.
• Flavor explosion: The mix of sweet maple syrup, zesty orange, and savory spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will elevate our maple roasted carrots with cranberries. Each element plays a crucial role in crafting this delicious dish!

For the Carrots

• 500 g / 1.1 lb / 17 oz medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• 30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tsp harissa paste, adjust to taste (strength varies!)
• a few springs of thyme or lemon thyme
• 1 clove garlic, finely grated
• ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
• Black pepper, to serve

For the Cranberries

• 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
• Zest of ½ large orange

For Garnish

• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to swap out ingredients or add your personal touch. Here are some ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the harissa paste.
• Switch the nuts: Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
• Infuse herbs: Experiment with rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.

How to Make Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 170° C / 340° F fan forced (or 190° C / 375° F no fan). Line one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper. Preheating ensures an even roast, giving your carrots that perfect caramelization.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots (you can save them for pesto or soups) and cut them in half lengthwise. This allows for quicker cooking and better absorption of flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a bowl, coat the fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step adds brightness and sweetness to balance out the tartness of the cranberries.

Step 4: Make the Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about one tablespoon), grated garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful marinade that will enhance our carrots beautifully.

Step 5: Coat the Carrots

Toss the dry carrot halves in the maple-harissa mixture until well coated (don’t forget to save any leftover marinade!). Spread them out on your baking tray(s). If using one large tray, place cranberries at one end; if using two trays, separate them accordingly.

Step 6: Roast Them Up!

Roast everything in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while cranberries soften into jammy goodness. Check on your cranberries; if they’re done sooner than expected, remove them from the tray so they don’t overcook.

Step 7: Toast Your Nuts

In a hot pan without oil, lightly toast almond flakes until they are golden brown and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds crunch to your dish.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

On a large serving platter, arrange your beautiful roasted carrots and cranberries. Sprinkle generously with toasted almonds and fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops if you’re feeling adventurous—just be cautious with those tops as they can be bitter!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious maple roasted carrots with cranberries! Perfect as an appetizer or side dish that will surely steal the show at any gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Creating the perfect maple roasted carrots with cranberries is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a dish that’s bursting with flavor!

• Choose fresh, young carrots – Young carrots are sweeter and more tender. They roast beautifully and enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Adjust the harissa paste to your liking – Harissa can vary in heat, so taste a small amount before adding it to your mixture. This way, you can control the spice level according to your preference.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray – Spacing out the carrots allows them to caramelize properly, ensuring they become tender with a lovely golden exterior. If necessary, use two trays!
• Shake things up with herbs – Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, but feel free to explore other herbs like rosemary or parsley for variation in flavor.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your roasted carrots to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps all those wonderful flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your beautifully roasted carrots with cranberries can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to showcase this vibrant dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional thyme or chopped parsley can add a pop of color and freshness.
• Zest of orange: Grating a little more orange zest over the top enhances the citrus notes and brightens up the presentation.
• Toasted seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can bring an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish well.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well as it balances the sweetness of the carrots.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their hearty texture and slight bitterness provide a nice contrast to the sweet maple-roasted flavors of the carrots.
• Couscous with herbs: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro offers a refreshing side that complements the dish perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the vibrant roasted veggies, creating a cozy meal.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’re sure to impress your family and friends during any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite of these maple roasted carrots with cranberries.

Make Ahead and Storage

These maple roasted carrots with cranberries are perfect for meal prep! They not only taste amazing but can also save you time during busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the roasted carrots and cranberries cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool fully before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label your containers for easy identification!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 170° C / 340° F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about maple roasted carrots with cranberries that you might find helpful!

Can I use other vegetables with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Absolutely! Other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can complement this dish beautifully. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What makes maple roasted carrots with cranberries a great side dish?

Maple roasted carrots with cranberries offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. They’re also colorful and add a festive touch to any meal!

How do I adjust the sweetness in maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

You can easily modify the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preferences. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce it by a tablespoon at a time.

Are there any substitutions for harissa paste in maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Yes! If you want milder flavors, try using smoked paprika or chili powder mixed with olive oil instead of harissa paste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This vibrant dish is not just eye-catching but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive occasion, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and joy!