Tahini Maple Glazed Carrots: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Tahini maple glazed carrots are about to revolutionize your side dish game! Forget everything you thought you knew about this humble root vegetable. We’re taking carrots to a whole new level of deliciousness with a sweet, nutty, and utterly irresistible glaze. Imagine tender, roasted carrots, their natural sweetness amplified by a luscious coating of tahini, maple syrup, and a hint of warmth from spices.

While glazed carrots have been a staple on dinner tables for generations, often featuring butter and brown sugar, this modern twist draws inspiration from Middle Eastern flavors. Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, has been a culinary cornerstone in that region for centuries, adding depth and complexity to both savory and sweet dishes. Its earthy notes perfectly complement the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a balanced and sophisticated flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, the taste is simply divine – the combination of sweet, savory, and nutty is incredibly satisfying. Second, the texture is perfect: the carrots are tender yet slightly firm, coated in a smooth and glossy glaze. Finally, tahini maple glazed carrots are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner accompaniment, these glazed carrots are guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience carrots like never before!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon water (more if needed)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Carrots:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our carrots. I like to use carrots that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly. If you have some that are significantly thicker than others, you might want to halve or quarter them lengthwise to ensure everything is tender at the same time.

1. Peel the carrots: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin of the carrots. Make sure you get all of it off, as the skin can sometimes be a little bitter.
2. Cut the carrots: Now, slice the carrots into rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick. This thickness is perfect because it allows the carrots to cook through without becoming mushy. Aim for consistency in size for even cooking.

Roasting the Carrots:

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and gives them a lovely caramelized flavor. This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it!

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the carrots in. This ensures they start cooking immediately and get that nice roasted texture.
2. Toss with oil and seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the prepared carrot rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the carrots are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning. This will help them roast properly and develop a delicious flavor. I like to use my hands to make sure everything is well combined.
3. Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the carrots to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
4. Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. I usually flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to be tender but still have a little bit of bite.

Making the Tahini Maple Glaze:

This glaze is what takes these carrots from ordinary to extraordinary! The combination of tahini, maple syrup, and lemon juice creates a sweet, nutty, and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the roasted carrots.

1. Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and creamy. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be pourable but not too runny.
2. Taste and adjust: Give the glaze a taste and adjust the flavors as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more maple syrup. If you want more tang, add a squeeze more lemon juice. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to your own taste.

Glazing and Finishing the Carrots:

Now for the final touch! This is where we bring everything together and create a truly memorable dish.

1. Glaze the carrots: Once the carrots are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a clean bowl. Pour the tahini maple glaze over the carrots and toss gently to coat them evenly. Make sure every carrot is nicely coated with the glaze.
2. Return to the oven (optional): For an extra layer of flavor and a slightly stickier glaze, you can return the glazed carrots to the baking sheet and broil them for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch.
3. Garnish and serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sesame seeds (if using). The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while the sesame seeds add a nutty crunch.
4. Serve immediately: Serve the tahini maple glazed carrots immediately as a side dish. They are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They pair well with a variety of main courses, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or vegetarian dishes.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
• Add ginger: Grate a small piece of fresh ginger into the glaze for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Use different herbs: Instead of parsley, try using chopped cilantro, dill, or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds over the carrots for added crunch and flavor.
• Make it vegan: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Storage: Leftover glazed carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! These tahini maple glazed carrots are a delicious and healthy side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. They are perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even a simple weeknight meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Tahini Maple Glazed Carrots are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, carrots might not be the most exciting vegetable, but trust me on this one. The combination of the earthy tahini, the sweet maple syrup, and the perfectly roasted carrots creates a symphony of flavors that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up a batch of these beauties. The ingredient list is short and sweet, and the instructions are straightforward. Secondly, it’s a fantastic way to elevate a simple side dish into something truly special. Forget boring steamed carrots – these are bursting with flavor and have a beautiful, glossy glaze that makes them look as good as they taste. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, they’re incredibly delicious! The tahini adds a nutty depth that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly, and the roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. These Tahini Maple Glazed Carrots are fantastic served alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian feast. They’re also a great addition to a holiday table, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Looking for some variations? You could try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten up the flavors. For a more savory twist, try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with different types of nut butter in place of the tahini – almond butter or cashew butter would both be delicious!

I’m absolutely confident that you’re going to love this recipe. It’s a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, grab some carrots, and get cooking!

I truly believe that this recipe for Tahini Maple Glazed Carrots will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s a simple way to add a touch of gourmet flair to your everyday meals.

And now for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please let me know what you think. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] – I can’t wait to see your creations! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!

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