05 May 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
4 cups carrots
1 tbsp butter
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup hazelnuts
Maple carrots are a delicious and easy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a rich, nutty flavor from hazelnuts. Perfect for holiday feasts or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish combines a few simple ingredients for a truly delightful taste.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
- Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into even-sized slices or sticks for uniform cooking.
2. Blanch the Carrots (Optional but recommended):
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Add the carrot slices to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Drain the carrots and set aside.
3. Toast the Hazelnuts:
- While the carrots are blanching, place a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped hazelnuts to the skillet and toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a bowl and set aside.
4. Cook the Carrots:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the blanched carrots to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender and start to caramelize.
5. Add Maple Syrup:
- Pour the maple syrup over the carrots, stirring well to ensure that all the carrots are evenly coated.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken slightly and glaze the carrots.
6. Combine with Hazelnuts:
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the toasted hazelnuts until they are evenly distributed among the carrots.
7. Serve:
- Transfer the maple-glazed carrots and hazelnuts to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Choose fresh, crispy carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Peel and slice the carrots evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Toast the hazelnuts lightly before adding them to the dish to enhance their flavor.
- Use real maple syrup for a more authentic and robust taste.
- Don't overcook the carrots; they should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Maple carrots are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can elevate any meal with minimal effort. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a side that's both nutritious and delectable. Enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors and the compliments they'll bring!