Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the bacon with smoked almonds or toasted pecans for that smoky flavor. For a slightly different twist, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the maple glaze.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Place the peeled and cut carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the maple-butter mixture, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to ensure the carrots are evenly coated.
- Arrange the carrots in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to roast properly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
From my experience, the key to perfect Maple Bacon Carrots is ensuring the carrots are evenly coated with the glaze and spaced out on the baking sheet. This allows them to caramelize beautifully and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International