Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Our Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze) recipe elevates ordinary carrots into a sweet and spicy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of honey and hot sauce creates a delightful glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy family dinner or as part of a festive gathering, these roasted carrots will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The hot honey glaze adds a unique sweet and spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with any main course.
• Versatile Dish: These roasted carrots are perfect for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
• Nutrient-Rich: Carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before starting your roasted carrots recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: A good quality baking tray ensures even roasting, allowing the carrots to caramelize beautifully.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the hot honey glaze without taking up too much space on your stove.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the carrots quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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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

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F or 220°C.
2. Peel and chop 2 pounds of carrots into even bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the chopped carrots with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper.
4. Spread the seasoned carrots on a baking tray without overlapping.
5. Pour ½ cup water onto the tray to speed up cooking without pre-boiling. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

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

Step 3: Glaze & Roast

1. Remove the carrots from the oven and drain any excess water from the baking tray.
2. Toss the carrots with half of the hot honey sauce until evenly coated.
3. Add 2 cloves garlic (crushed) to the tray.
4. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the carrots are fork-tender and caramelized.
5. Reserve the remaining hot honey sauce for serving.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Serve these roasted carrots over whipped ricotta drizzled with reserved hot honey sauce and sprinkled with toasted chopped pistachios for extra crunch. Alternatively, enjoy them as is with fresh parsley sprinkled on top. These roasted carrots make an excellent side dish for gatherings or as a vibrant addition to grain bowls and 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 serve them in various ways to enhance your meals. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to showcase these flavorful carrots.

Over Whipped Ricotta

• Spread creamy whipped ricotta on a plate and top with roasted carrots for a rich, satisfying dish.

Drizzled with Extra Hot Honey

• For those who love spice, drizzle the remaining hot honey sauce generously over the carrots before serving.

Sprinkled with Chopped Nuts

• Add texture by topping the dish with toasted chopped pistachios or walnuts for a crunchy contrast.

Paired with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the carrots with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to add freshness and color.

As Part of Grain Bowls

• Incorporate roasted carrots into grain bowls alongside quinoa or farro, making for a hearty meal option.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include these glazed carrots as part of a vibrant charcuterie board for a colorful and tasty addition.

How to Perfect Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

To achieve the best results when making roasted carrots with hot honey glaze, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Carrots: Select firm, vibrant carrots for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Uniform Cutting: Cut the carrots into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect tenderness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the carrots out on the baking tray without overlapping to promote even roasting.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference; start small and taste as you go.
• Use High Heat: Roasting at 425°F (220°C) caramelizes the sugars in the carrots, enhancing their natural sweetness.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the roasted carrots to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.

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

Complement your roasted carrots with these fantastic side dishes that pair beautifully together. Each option adds its own unique flavor profile to round out your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances well with sweet glazed carrots.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic vinegar provide a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with sweet carrots.
4. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous prepared with fresh herbs brings lightness and complements the flavors of roasted vegetables.
5. Honey-Glazed Green Beans: Sweet and tender green beans sautéed in honey mirror the flavor theme of your glazed carrots.
6. Lentil Pilaf: A hearty lentil pilaf seasoned with spices offers protein while being an earthy counterpoint to the sweetness of the carrots.
7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad loaded with olives, bell peppers, and feta cheese provides a salty bite that enhances every forkful.
8. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli dressed in lemon juice adds a refreshing touch and nutritional boost to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Roasting carrots can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your roasted carrots come out perfectly every time.

• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: If you place too many carrots on the tray, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal caramelization.
• Skipping the Water: Adding water to the baking tray helps cook the carrots evenly and keeps them moist. Don’t skip this step for fork-tender results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Roasting in a preheated oven ensures that the carrots start cooking immediately. Always preheat to 425°F (220°C) before putting your tray in.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your carrots. If they aren’t tender after the suggested time, give them a little more time until they reach that perfect fork-tender texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients mix better and help with even cooking. Let your honey and other liquids sit at room temperature before using them in the glaze.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Place cooled roasted carrots in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label and date!

Reheating Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! You can try using parsnips, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers alongside carrots for varied textures and flavors.

How do I make these roasted carrots spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more hot sauce to the glaze or sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving.

Can I prepare the hot honey glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it slightly before using.

What can I serve with roasted carrots?

These delicious roasted carrots pair well with grilled chicken, beef dishes, or as a colorful addition to salads and grain bowls.

Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version while maintaining sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze) recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough to complement various meals. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or incorporating other vegetables. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!