Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Our Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze) recipe transforms humble carrots into a delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, these fork-tender bites coated in a mouthwatering hot honey glaze will impress your guests and family alike. The unique blend of flavors makes this dish stand out, offering both sweetness and a hint of spice that enhances the natural taste of the carrots.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning side dish that requires minimal effort.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, hot sauce, and smoked paprika creates a delightful balance of sweet and spicy.
• Versatile Use: These roasted carrots can be served as a side dish, added to grain bowls, or enjoyed over whipped ricotta for an elegant presentation.
• Healthier Option: Packed with nutrients, carrots are a wholesome addition to your meals without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This recipe fits beautifully into holiday menus or casual dinners alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Small saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Ensures even cooking by allowing heat to circulate around the carrots.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the hot honey glaze without needing multiple pots.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the carrots quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Carrots

• 2 pounds carrots
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup water

For the Hot Honey Glaze

• ¼ cup honey
• 1 – 2 tablespoons hot sauce (gochujang, harissa, sriracha, or Tabasco)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (+ 1 pinch salt)

How to Make Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Step 1: Pre-Bake the Carrots

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and chop the 2 pounds of carrots into even bite-sized pieces. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Spread them on a baking tray without overlapping. Pour in ½ cup of water; this speeds up cooking without pre-boiling. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup honey, 1 – 2 tablespoons hot sauce, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Simmer on medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Set aside.

Step 3: Glaze & Roast

Remove the carrots from the oven. Drain any excess water from the baking tray. Toss them with half of the hot honey sauce until evenly coated. Add in 2 cloves garlic, crushed, and bake for another 20 minutes until fork-tender and caramelized. Reserve the remaining hot honey sauce for serving.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Serve these roasted carrots over whipped ricotta drizzled with remaining hot honey sauce and sprinkled with toasted chopped pistachios for added crunch. Alternatively, enjoy them as is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They make an excellent addition to grain bowls or salads!

How to Serve Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Roasted carrots with hot honey glaze are not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your dining experience by pairing them with various accompaniments that enhance their flavor profile.

Over Whipped Ricotta

• Serve the roasted carrots over a creamy layer of whipped ricotta for a rich and indulgent dish. Drizzle the remaining hot honey sauce on top for added sweetness.

With Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted pistachios or walnuts over the glazed carrots. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender carrots.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro to brighten up the plate. The herbs add freshness and color, making your dish visually appealing.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Combine the roasted carrots with quinoa, farro, or brown rice in a grain bowl. This makes for a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and filling.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include these spicy roasted carrots on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, fruits, and other veggies. They offer a unique flavor that complements various snacks.

With Other Roasted Vegetables

• Pair your glazed carrots with other roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for an eye-catching side dish that offers diverse flavors and textures.

How to Perfect Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

To achieve perfectly roasted carrots, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Uniform Size: Cut your carrots into even bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.

• Proper Oiling: Use enough olive oil to coat the carrots lightly. This helps them caramelize beautifully in the oven without becoming greasy.

• Water Technique: Pouring water onto the baking tray aids in steaming the carrots during roasting, helping them cook faster while retaining moisture.

• Glazing Timing: Apply the hot honey glaze halfway through roasting. This allows it to caramelize without burning while coating the carrots evenly.

• Taste Testing: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt or hot sauce levels according to your preference for spice and seasoning balance.

• Garnish Smartly: Consider garnishing with something crunchy like seeds or nuts right before serving to maintain their texture and add visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

If you’re looking to round out your meal, consider pairing these roasted carrots with flavorful side dishes that complement their sweetness and spice.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice, creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the spicy glaze of roasted carrots.

2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds a lightness that balances the richness of the carrots.

3. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic deliver a crisp texture and vibrant color alongside the tender roasted carrots.

4. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs brings an aromatic element that pairs well with sweet and spicy flavors.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the hot honey glaze beautifully.

6. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts, cheese, and a citrus vinaigrette provides brightness and crunch to your meal.

7. Savory Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with dried fruits and nuts creates an interesting flavor profile that contrasts nicely with roasted vegetables.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or veggies make for an attractive side option that rounds out your dinner plate deliciously.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making roasted carrots with hot honey glaze, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Pre-Baking Step: Not pre-baking can lead to uneven cooking. Always bake carrots briefly in water first for even tenderness.
• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: If carrots overlap, they won’t roast properly. Spread them out on the tray to ensure they caramelize beautifully.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoned carrots can taste bland. Be generous with salt and spices to enhance the natural sweetness.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Every oven is different. Check your carrots frequently and adjust baking times as needed for perfect texture.
• Neglecting to Prepare the Glaze Separately: Mixing the glaze directly with raw carrots can lead to burning. Always prepare and add it separately for better flavor control.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store roasted carrots in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Place cooked carrots in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread carrots on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about roasted carrots with hot honey glaze.

What makes roasted carrots so delicious?

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while caramelizing their edges. The hot honey glaze adds a spicy-sweet kick that enhances their flavor.

How do I customize my roasted carrots?

You can adjust the amount of hot sauce for more or less spice. Adding other seasonings like thyme or rosemary can give them a unique twist.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a delightful variation.

How do I ensure my carrots are tender?

Cut your carrots into even-sized pieces and don’t skip the pre-baking step; this helps achieve that fork-tender texture you want.

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan take on roasted carrots with hot honey glaze.

Final Thoughts

These roasted carrots with hot honey glaze are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether served as a side dish or added to salads, they offer both flavor and nutrition. Feel free to customize them based on your preferences, and enjoy experimenting with different spices and glazes!

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Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Elevate your dining experience with our Roasted Carrots with Hot Honey Glaze. This vibrant side dish transforms ordinary carrots into a culinary delight with their sweet and spicy flavor. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while the hot honey glaze adds a tantalizing kick that will impress your family and guests alike. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Serve them over whipped ricotta or alongside your favorite grains for a wholesome meal that shines.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds carrots
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 – 2 tablespoons hot sauce (your choice)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup water

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and chop the carrots into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking tray and add water.
3. Bake for 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the hot honey glaze by simmering honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan for 2-3 minutes. Stir in apple cider vinegar and set aside.
5. After 20 minutes, drain excess water from the carrots, coat them with half of the hot honey glaze, and add crushed garlic.
6. Bake for an additional 20 minutes until tender and caramelized. Drizzle remaining glaze before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 245mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg