Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, you’re going to adore these Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots. This recipe transforms humble carrots into a caramelized, tangy, and slightly sweet delight that complements everything from weeknight dinners to festive holiday spreads. The balance of robust whole grain mustard and the rich sweetness of maple syrup creates an irresistible glaze that coats each tender carrot slice, making every bite a celebration of simple ingredients working in perfect harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish loaded with flavor, color, and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s providing sweetness, a hint of spice, or a velvety finish.

• Carrots (1 lb): The star of this recipe; choose firm, bright carrots for the best texture and sweetness.
• Maple syrup (2 Tbsp, divided): Adds natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like depth.
• Whole grain mustard (1 Tbsp, divided): Offers a rustic texture and sharp tang that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• Olive oil (1 Tbsp): Helps to roast the carrots evenly and gives a subtle fruity note.
• Dijon mustard (2 tsp, divided): Brings a smooth, sharp mustard flavor that complements the whole grain mustard.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with a savory punch enhancing overall aroma.
• Dried thyme (½ tsp): Provides earthy, herbal undertones to balance the sweet glaze.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Essential for rounding out flavors and enhancing the natural sweetness of carrots.
• Cracked black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for serving): Adds freshness and visual appeal.
• Goat cheese, crumbled (optional): Provides creamy tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.

How to Make Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, and line a baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. This step ensures your carrots will roast evenly and develop that lovely golden caramelization.

Step 2: Prep the Carrots

Wash, peel, and trim your carrots, then cut them on the bias into roughly 1½ inch pieces. Cutting diagonally exposes more surface area so the glaze can cling better and the roasting process brings out their natural sweetness. If any pieces are very thick, halve them lengthwise for even cooking.

Step 3: Toss in the Glaze

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, ½ tablespoon whole grain mustard, 1 teaspoon of Dijon, along with the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the carrots, then toss everything thoroughly until each piece is generously coated.

Step 4: Roast the Carrots

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the carrots onto your prepared pan in one even layer, leaving the excess marinade behind in the bowl. Roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Larger carrots might take closer to 30 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t scorch.

Step 5: Baste for Extra Flavor

During the last 5 to 10 minutes of roasting, brush the reserved glaze over the carrots to give them an extra glossy, flavorful coating. This step intensifies the maple and mustard flavors while keeping the carrots moist and wonderfully sticky.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon maple syrup, ½ tablespoon whole grain mustard, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to create a fresh glaze. Drizzle it over the roasted carrots and toss lightly to coat. Serve immediately topped with fresh thyme sprigs and crumbled goat cheese if you want to add a creamy, tangy dimension to this vibrant dish.

How to Serve Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots

Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs elevate the presentation and add an aromatic lift that contrasts sweet and savory notes beautifully. A scattering of crumbled goat cheese adds a luscious tang that complements the glaze perfectly, making your Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots feel elegant and comforting all at once.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or turkey, as well as with rich, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. The natural sweetness and subtle tang provide a refreshing contrast to heavy main courses, brightening up your whole meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning side, serve these carrots on a wooden board sprinkled with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch. They also work beautifully in a warm grain bowl with quinoa or farro, tossed with fresh greens and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor well and can be enjoyed cold, room temperature, or reheated.

Freezing

While roasting brings out the best texture, you can freeze fully cooked glazed carrots in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently before serving to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the carrots in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350-degree oven to maintain their tender texture and prevent drying out. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that lovely glaze slightly caramelized.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Absolutely! Baby carrots work well for this recipe, although you might want to adjust the roasting time slightly, as smaller carrots tend to cook faster and can become mushy if overdone.

Is there a substitute for whole grain mustard?

Yes, if you don’t have whole grain mustard, you can use more Dijon mustard or a spicy brown mustard. However, whole grain mustard adds a unique texture and flavor that really shines in this glaze.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! The glaze itself is vegan-friendly, just omit the goat cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese crumble or toasted nuts for added creaminess and texture.

How can I make the carrots extra caramelized?

For a more pronounced caramelization, spread the carrots with plenty of space on the baking sheet to allow the heat to circulate well, and roast a bit longer while keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

You can mix the maple syrup and mustards ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, but it’s best to add fresh garlic and thyme just before tossing to keep their flavors bright and fragrant.

Final Thoughts

Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots are truly one of those dishes that can turn an ordinary meal into something memorable with just a few simple ingredients and easy steps. The harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, and I can’t recommend giving it a try enough. Once you taste these tender, beautifully glazed carrots, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

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