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This maple glazed carrots recipe is a simple low calorie side dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table by combining the sweet natural taste of carrots with the rich tang of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, finished with aromatic thyme.
This dish is a harmonious blend of flavors, the balsamic vinegar introduces a complex acidity that cuts through the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Fresh thyme is more than just a garnish. Its subtle, lemony aroma complements the tang of balsamic and the depth of maple, adding a layer of sophistication that elevates the dish.
Roasting at 400°F allows the natural sugars in the carrots to caramelize. If the carrots are not roasted enough, the glaze will be too runny, too long, and you risk overcooking the vegetables.
This balsamic maple glazed carrots recipe is a modern take on traditional glazed carrots, incorporating creative twists and thoughtful techniques to bring out the best in each ingredient.
From selecting the right carrots to achieving the perfect caramelization, every step is an art.
Let’s walk through this process together.
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Balsamic Maple Glazed Carrots
Here are some of the ingredients you will need for making roasted carrots with thyme and balsamic:
1. Carrots
- The star of the dish! Fresh carrots have a natural sweetness that intensifies when roasted. Cutting them into even sticks ensures uniform cooking.
- Medium-thick carrots (not too skinny, not too thick) for the perfect tender-crisp texture.
2. Pure Maple Syrup
- Maple syrup is the heart of the glaze. Its natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a glossy, sticky coating that balances the tanginess of balsamic vinegar.
- Avoid pancake syrup, 100% pure maple syrup has a richer flavor.
3. Olive Oil
- Used to toss the carrots before roasting, olive oil helps the glaze stick to the carrots and ensures even cooking. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note.
- Alternatives include avocado oil (higher smoke point) or melted butter (for extra richness).
4. Balsamic Vinegar
- Balsamic vinegar brings a tangy, complex acidity that beautifully balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. Its rich, slightly syrupy texture gives the dish a gourmet edge and adding layers of complexity.
- A good-quality balsamic (not the cheap, overly acidic kind) makes a difference.
5. Fresh Thyme
- Fresh thyme adds an aromatic freshness and a hint of earthiness that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. Thyme not only elevates the flavor but also adds a vibrant touch of color.
- Rosemary or sage can work, but thyme is the classic pairing.
6. Garlic or Garlic Powder
- For an extra layer of savory depth, a small amount of garlic can be added. Its pungent, warm aroma contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Minced fresh garlic works best, Dijon mustard can also be added for extra complexity.
Essential Equipment for Making Maple Glazed Carrots
To create your maple glazed carrots with this rich flavor profile, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal for even roasting and ensures that the glaze doesn’t spill over.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a large bowl to toss the carrot pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs.
- Measuring Spoons: For precise measurements of maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and seasonings, ensuring your glaze has the perfect balance of flavors.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for peeling and cutting the carrots into uniform pieces, which helps achieve consistent cooking and caramelization.
- Spatula or Tongs: Perfect for gently tossing the carrots on the baking sheet and serving them once they’re beautifully glazed.
- Oven: A reliable oven is key to reaching the ideal temperature (usually around 400°F/205°C) that allows the carrots to roast evenly and the glaze to caramelize perfectly.
Nutritional Benefits of Maple Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Maple glazed carrots provide a wonderful mix of nutrients and health benefits:
- High in Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): One serving provides over 300% of your daily Vitamin A needs, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Carrots contain lutein and lycopene, while maple syrup has polyphenols, which help fight inflammation.
- Dietary Fiber: The fiber in carrots aids digestion and contributes to overall gut health, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
- Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup offers a natural alternative to refined sugars, providing minerals and antioxidants while avoiding processed sugars.
- Low in Calories: Carrots are naturally low in calories, making this dish a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Low Carb: With their minimal carbohydrate content, maple glazed carrots fit well into low carb meal plans while still providing essential nutrients.
What to Serve with Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots
Roasted maple balsamic glazed carrots, with their balanced sweetness and tang, make a versatile side dish.
Here are some ideas for serving or pairing:
- Roasted or Grilled Meats: They pair exceptionally well with roasted chicken, pork, or turkey. The sweet glaze contrasts nicely with savory, well-seasoned meats.
- Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: The robust flavors of a herb-crusted rack of lamb complement the sweetness and tang of the glazed carrots, creating a sophisticated and memorable meal.
- Grilled Fish: A fillet of grilled salmon or another white fish can benefit from the rich, caramelized flavors of the glazed carrots.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes: Serve these carrots with a hearty grain bowl, quinoa salad, or mixed vegetable medley. They’re also a fantastic topping for warm lentil stews or even a vibrant salad.
- Brunch or Breakfast Sides: Add them as a side for a savory breakfast hash or an omelet to bring a touch of sweetness and color to your morning plate.
- Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: Their sweet and tangy profile makes them an excellent accompaniment to a variety of cheeses and cured meats, adding a burst of flavor to your spread.
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: The bright, citrusy notes of lemon herb grilled chicken pair wonderfully with the savory-sweet profile of the carrots, balancing each bite perfectly.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, comforting texture of garlic mashed potatoes offers a delightful contrast to the crisp-tender, caramelized carrots.
Quick Tips for Making the Best Maple Balsamic Carrots
Before you get started, here are some quick tips to ensure your roasted carrots with maple syrup turns out flawlessly every time:
- Uniform Cuts: Make sure the carrots are cut into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the carrots in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding causes the vegetables to steam rather than roast, which can prevent that beautiful caramelization.
- Carrots Must Be Dry Before Roasting: Pat the carrots dry after washing. Excess moisture can hinder the roasting process, resulting in soggy carrots instead of the desired crispy exterior.
- Watch the Glaze: Keep a close eye during the final roasting stage. The maple balsamic glaze is prone to burning if left unattended for too long.
- Simmer Glaze on Low Heat: When preparing your glaze, simmer it gently over low heat to reduce it slightly. This helps to intensify the flavors without the risk of burning it before it’s applied to the carrots.
- Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme is ideal for its vibrant flavor and aroma. While dried thyme (about ½ tsp) works in a pinch, the fresh herb makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Herb Variations: While thyme is classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage to create different aromatic profiles.
- Texture Matters: Roasting at 400°F (205°C) is key to achieving that perfect balance of caramelization without burning the carrots. This temperature helps to draw out their natural sugars while keeping them tender.
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From my early days in the kitchen, I’ve learned that great cooking doesn’t necessarily mean complex techniques, it’s about understanding your ingredients and letting their natural flavors shine.
This balsamic maple glazed carrots dish holds a special place in my culinary repertoire. What began as a simple experiment during a casual dinner party, quickly became a signature dish that left guests asking for more.
The essence of this dish lies in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients, you can create a side dish that rivals even the most elaborate entrees.
Take your time, enjoy the process, and let the natural flavors of the carrots and glaze work their magic.
Happy cooking!
Balsamic Maple Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Description
This glazed carrots recipe is a low-calorie side dish that marries the sweet natural taste of carrots with the rich tang of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, finished with aromatic thyme.
Ingredients
Cooking Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- A hot oven is essential to achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior on your carrots.
- Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into uniform pieces (either sticks or rounds) to ensure even cooking.
- Uniformity is key for consistent texture and flavor.
Season the Carrots
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut carrots with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Make sure each piece is lightly coated.
- Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Ensure there is enough space between each piece to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
Roast the Carrots
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 15 minutes.
- This initial roasting softens the carrots and begins the caramelization process.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and fresh thyme leaves.
- Stir well until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
- Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened to a glossy glaze.
- This mixture is what transforms the carrots into a dazzling display of flavor.
Glaze and Finish Roasting
- After 15 minutes of roasting, carefully take out the baking sheet.
- Pour the prepared balsamic and maple syrup mixture evenly over the carrots.
- Gently toss the carrots on the sheet so they are thoroughly coated with the glaze.
- Return the carrots to the oven.
- Roast for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure the glaze doesn’t burn.
- The carrots should become tender, with a lovely caramelized finish.
Garnish and Serve
- Once the carrots are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Garnish with a few extra thyme sprigs for that extra pop of color and aroma.
- Serve immediately as a side dish to accompany roasted meats, salads, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size Approximately 1 cup
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 90kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Sodium 320mg14%
- Potassium 380mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 1g2%
- Vitamin A 12250 IU
- Vitamin C 7 mg
- Calcium 40 mg
- Vitamin K 12 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Carrots must be dry before roasting to ensure caramelization.
- Ensure all carrot pieces are cut uniformly for consistent cooking.
- Taste glaze before tossing and adjust sweetness or tang with a splash of vinegar or syrup.
- Add the glaze after the initial roasting to avoid burning.
- Monitor the final roasting stage closely to achieve a perfect caramelization.
- Use fresh thyme for the best aroma and flavor.
