Roasted Carrots Maple Cumin

The kitchen filled with this incredible warm aroma as the maple and cumin hit the hot carrots. My roommate wandered in asking what smelled so amazing, genuinely surprised when I said just carrots. Sometimes the simplest vegetables become absolute showstoppers with the right treatment.

I made these for a dinner party where half the guests claimed to hate carrots. The platter was empty before I even sat down, and my friend actually asked if I could make them for her birthday dinner. That is the power of a really good glaze.

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium carrots: Look for carrots with fresh green tops still attached as they are the sweetest and most tender
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup: Real maple syrup makes a noticeable difference in depth compared to pancake syrup
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices adhere and promotes even caramelization in the oven
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Toast your cumin in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding for even more fragrance
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that makes the dish taste more complex
• 1/2 tsp sea salt: Essential to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground pepper makes all the difference here
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color that makes the dish look restaurant quality

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Whisk together the glaze:

Combine the maple syrup, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth

Coat the carrots:

Add the carrots to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until every piece is covered in the fragrant glaze

Arrange for roasting:

Spread the carrots in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, giving them space to caramelize properly

Roast until tender:

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through, until they are tender and have golden edges

Finish and serve:

Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with fresh parsley and seeds if using, then serve warm

Save

These carrots have become my go-to for holiday dinners because they are effortless but feel special. Last Thanksgiving my sister finally admitted she liked carrots after years of avoiding them, and that felt like a genuine victory.

Make Them Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze if you enjoy some heat. The spice plays beautifully against the sweet maple and creates a more complex flavor profile that keeps people coming back for another bite.

Sweetener Options

Honey works perfectly as a substitute for maple syrup if that is what you have on hand. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious, though note that honey is not vegan.

Serving Suggestions

These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or as part of a larger vegetarian spread. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up.

• Try them alongside braised short ribs for a comforting dinner
• Add to a grain bowl with quinoa and chickpeas for a complete meal
• Double the recipe because they disappear fast

Save

These roasted carrots prove that humble vegetables can become the star of the table with just a little attention and the right flavor combinations. Enjoy every sweet and savory bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of carrots works best?

Medium-sized carrots peeled and cut into sticks or small whole carrots are ideal for even roasting and glaze absorption.

→ Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, honey can replace maple syrup for a similar sweetness but note it is not vegan-friendly.

→ How can I enhance the flavor of the glaze?

Add a pinch of chili flakes to introduce subtle heat, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.

→ What are good garnish options?

Chopped fresh parsley along with toasted sesame or pumpkin seeds provide a fresh and crunchy finish.

→ Is this dish gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it accessible for many dietary preferences.