Sweet and Tender Vegan Maple Carrots, an Easy Holiday Side

What kind of recipe is it?

Vegan Maple Carrots is a delightful plant-based side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavor of maple syrup. This recipe is characterized by its simplicity and vibrant presentation, making it a perfect accompaniment for any meal.

Ideal for health-conscious individuals and those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, these carrots aren’t only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With their glossy finish and sweet-savory taste, they’re sure to impress both vegan and non-vegan diners alike.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Carrots	1 pound (approximately 4-5 medium carrots)
Maple syrup	¼ cup
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon
Fresh thyme (optional)	1 teaspoon (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Water (for steaming)	½ cup

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Cooking Steps

Prepare your mise en place by washing, peeling, and cutting the carrots into even-sized sticks (approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) long) for uniform cooking.
In a medium saucepan, bring 120 ml (½ cup) of water to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, carefully place a steaming basket over the saucepan, guaranteeing that it doesn’t touch the water.
Add the prepared carrot sticks to the steaming basket, cover with a lid, and steam for about 5-7 minutes, until the carrots are tender but still firm.
Check for doneness by piercing a carrot stick with a fork; it should feel slightly soft, yet maintain some resistance.
While the carrots are steaming, preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Position the oven rack in the middle.
In a large bowl, combine 60 ml (¼ cup) of maple syrup, 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of olive oil, 2.5 g (½ teaspoon) of salt, and 1 g (¼ teaspoon) of black pepper.
If desired, add 1 g (1 teaspoon) of fresh thyme or 0.5 g (½ teaspoon) of dried thyme. Whisk the mixture until well combined.
Once the carrots are steamed, transfer them carefully to the bowl with the maple syrup mixture.
Toss the carrots gently until evenly coated.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to guarantee even caramelization.
The carrots should be golden brown and glossy, with a sweet aroma wafting from the oven.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the carrots rest for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve the roasted maple carrots warm, garnished with additional fresh thyme, if desired.
Enjoy their sweet, savory flavor and tender texture.

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Variations

Spicy Maple Carrots: Add 1 g (½ teaspoon) of red pepper flakes to the maple syrup mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
Ginger-Infused Maple Carrots: Incorporate 10 g (1 tablespoon) of freshly grated ginger into the maple syrup mixture for a warm, zesty flavor.
Cranberry Maple Carrots: Mix in 50 g (½ cup) of dried cranberries with the coated carrots before roasting for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Balsamic Maple Carrots: Substitute 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of balsamic vinegar for the olive oil in the maple syrup mixture for a tangy depth of flavor.

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Tips on plating and presentation

How can you elevate your Vegan Maple Carrots to make them visually appealing?

I love using a white serving dish; it really makes those vibrant colors pop.

Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or toasted nuts creates a beautiful contrast.

For an extra touch, drizzle some maple syrup on top, and you’ll have a stunning dish that’s ready for any holiday table!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While planning a meal, pairing your Vegan Maple Carrots with complementary dishes can elevate your dining experience.

I love serving them alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy vegan mashed potatoes, or a hearty quinoa salad.

You could also try them with stuffed bell peppers or a savory chickpea stew.

These options not only enhance flavors but also create a vibrant plate that’s sure to impress!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

When I’m enjoying Vegan Maple Carrots, I love to pair them with invigorating and complementing drinks that enhance the meal.

A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc really complements the sweetness.

If I’m in the mood for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or a rejuvenating herbal iced tea does wonders to balance the flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

I simply use gluten-free alternatives like tamari instead of soy sauce and guarantee any other ingredients, like broth or seasonings, are also gluten-free. It’s really easy to make this dish gluten-friendly!

Can I Use Frozen Carrots Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely, you can use frozen carrots instead of fresh! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first; they’ll cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them while you’re preparing the dish.

What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps them fresh for about three to five days. If I need to save them longer, I’ll freeze them for future meals.

How Long Do These Carrots Take to Prepare?

These carrots take about 15 minutes to prepare. I usually wash, peel, and slice them quickly, then cook them to tender perfection. It’s a simple, yet delicious process I really enjoy during busy days.

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, I can prepare these ahead of time. I usually make them a day in advance and simply reheat before serving. It saves me time and lets me enjoy the holiday festivities!