Picture the vibrant hues of nature on your dinner plate: the deep greens of roasted Brussels sprouts mingled with the bright orange of crisped carrot batons, all glistening under a maple-kissed glaze. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, a sweet and smoky experience that calls to the senses. Each bite offers a delightful crunch, revealing tender insides bursting with flavor. You can almost hear the happy chatter around your dining table as friends and family dig into this colorful side dish, delighting in the unexpected harmony of simple vegetables transformed into something utterly magical.
Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts invite you to explore a world where earthy flavors dance hand-in-hand with a touch of sweetness. Each vegetable, kissed by coconut oil and seasoned to perfection, becomes a canvas for the deep, rich notes of smoked paprika and garlic. The ensuing caramelization from the roasting brings out an irresistible complexity that makes these veggies stand out in every gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a vibrant holiday feast, this dish enhances the occasion, making it not just a meal, but a cherished culinary memory.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
This dish shines bright for numerous reasons. First, it’s a feast for the eyes with its gorgeous blend of colors and textures. Second, the flavor profile is a harmonious interplay between sweet and savory, an experience that elevates ordinary vegetables to something truly special.
Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts aren’t just delicious; they cater to both health-conscious eaters and flavor aficionados alike. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this side is not only nutritious but incredibly fulfilling. It stands firm in its versatility, complementing a wide array of mains, from holiday roasts to grilled fish. The dish is perfect for various occasions—the seasonal warmth makes it an ideal holiday side, while its splendid flavors also suit casual weeknight dinners. With each bite, you become aware that you are savoring something significant; it is not just food but a delightful celebration of nature’s bounty.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Creating your roasted vegetable masterpiece begins with the right tools. To achieve perfectly caramelized, crispy edges, you’ll need:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet ensures even roasting while allowing the heat to circulate around the veggies for that delightful crispness.
- Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for tossing your vegetables with spices and oil—this step is crucial for ensuring each piece gets coated properly.
- Spatula or Tongs: Used for turning your veggies halfway through roasting, they help achieve that golden crispness!
Pro Tip: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze while maintaining the integrity of those gorgeous roasted edges.
Ingredients for Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
- 4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved: These little cabbages pack a flavorful punch, and their outer leaves crisp up beautifully when roasted.
- 3 large carrots, cut into batons: Sweet and earthy, carrots provide a wonderful contrast to the Brussels sprouts, ensuring every bite is balanced.
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil: This oil brings a subtly sweet flavor and aids in achieving the perfect golden roast.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: The smokiness adds depth, enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: An all-time favorite, garlic enhances any dish, delivering warmth and aromatic richness.
- 1 tsp ground coriander: With citrusy notes, coriander brightens the palette and complements the sweetness from the maple.
- 1/3 tsp salt: A little salt brings harmony, balancing the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/3 tsp black pepper: A pinch of pepper awakens the senses, adding a delightful warmth.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup: This is the star of the show! The syrup’s sweetness creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
Possible Substitutions: If you’re looking to switch things up, other oils like olive oil work well, and baby carrots can replace large carrots for a quick prep. Feel free to explore other spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick!
How to Make Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and carrot batons with 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil. Ensure everything is well-coated for an even roast.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are thoroughly seasoned.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of roasting!
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even browning. Look for those delightful crispy edges!
- Drizzle maple syrup over the vegetables and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This final touch ensures that beautiful caramelization.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare and season the vegetables a few hours in advance. Just cover them and store in the fridge until ready to roast.
- Cooking Alternatives: If you’re short on time, these can also be made in an air fryer. Toss the veggies and air fry at 400°F for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy.
- Customization Ideas: Feel free to mix in other veggies—sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even beets will all roast beautifully and provide different flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This prevents the veggies from roasting properly, leading to soggy results. Give them space to breathe and caramelize!
- Ignoring the Toss: Failing to toss the vegetables in oil and spices means uneven cooking and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Underestimating Roasting Time: Each oven behaves slightly differently; keep an eye on your veggies for that perfect golden color.
What to Serve With Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
These delightful veggies pair wonderfully with just about any dish! Consider the following:
- Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken: The sweetness of the carrots and Brussels sprouts complements the savory chicken perfectly.
- Grilled Salmon: The rich, oily texture of salmon pairs beautifully with the crispy, slightly sweet veggies.
- Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavors of quinoa provide a great contrast and foundation for a satisfying meal.
- Pork Tenderloin: The sweetness enhances the savory notes of pork, creating a beautiful balance on your plate.
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Serve on the side to add freshness and crunch to a comforting, hearty dish.
- Rice Pilaf: The nutty rice serves as an excellent base to soak up flavors and offers a delightful texture contrast.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
For those who are lucky enough to have leftovers, store your crispy veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some of that original crunch. Alternatively, they can be gently reheated in a skillet over medium heat.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Approximate Values (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 7g
Disclaimer: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and measurements used.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, especially when using coconut oil. The maple syrup adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh sprouts yield the best texture, if you use frozen ones, be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that can lead to steaming.
3. How do I tell when the vegetables are done?
Look for a golden-brown color and crispy edges. If they’re fork-tender and the outer leaves are crisping up, you’re good to go!
4. What if I don’t have maple syrup?
You can substitute honey (if not vegan) or agave syrup for a similar sweetness and glaze effect.
5. How can I incorporate protein into this dish?
Add some chickpeas or white beans to roast alongside your vegetables for a complete meal brimming with nutrition.
Wrap-Up
Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts isn’t merely a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, an invitation to embrace wholesome ingredients that shine. With a gorgeous presentation and a taste that enchants the senses, this dish transforms everyday dining into something extraordinary. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic begin! You won’t just be cooking; you will be creating a delicious moment every time you serve this vibrant vegetable medley. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots drizzled with a sweet maple glaze.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 3 large carrots, cut into batons
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/3 tsp salt
- 1/3 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and carrot batons with 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on your baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the vegetables and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare and season the vegetables a few hours in advance. Store in the fridge and roast when ready.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
