Description
These Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are a sweet and savory side dish featuring tender carrots caramelized with brown sugar, olive oil, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional fresh thyme. Perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, they add a delightful pop of color and flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting your carrots.
- Prepare the carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into sticks or rounds, according to your preference, to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until each carrot piece is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Add fresh thyme: If using, sprinkle fresh thyme onto the carrots and toss again to distribute the herb’s flavor.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet to allow for even roasting and caramelization.
- Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Toss the carrots halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized exterior.
- Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven once tender and caramelized. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if fresh is unavailable, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or smoked paprika along with the brown sugar.
- Roasting time may vary slightly depending on carrot size; check for tenderness by piercing with a fork.
- These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
