Balsamic Maple Glazed Carrots with Thyme

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Total Time 45 mins

Cooking Method: Roasting, Simmering

Cuisine: American, French, Italian

Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Calories: 90

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

1 ½ pounds of medium sized carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks or rounds
2 tablespoons of olive oil (or avocado oil), for tossing and roasting
4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, for that tangy complex acidity
4 tablespoons of pure maple syrup (adjust for sweetness preference)
2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon of salt, to enhance the flavors
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for a gentle spice
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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.
6
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.