Honey Sesame Glazed Carrots

Honey Sesame Glazed Carrots are a sweet and savoury side dish that adds a splash of elegance and flavour to any meal. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by a sticky honey glaze, while sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and a touch of sophistication. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the glossy glaze and sprinkled sesame creating a beautiful contrast against the vibrant orange of the carrots. It's a simple yet impressive recipe that's perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Honey Sesame Glazed Carrots

Preparation Time and Servings:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients List:

500g (1.1 lbs) carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment Needed:

Large baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Small saucepan
Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Carrots: In a mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast Carrots: Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and starting to caramelize on the edges.
Make Glaze: While the carrots are roasting, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Glaze Carrots: Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Pour the honey sesame glaze over the carrots, tossing gently to coat.
Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley before serving.

Suggested Side Dishes:

Grilled chicken or salmon
Quinoa or couscous salad
Steamed green beans or asparagus

Common Mistakes/Points of Care:

Carrot Size: Ensure carrots are cut uniformly for even roasting.
Don't Overcook the Glaze: Cook the glaze just until it thickens to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Toasting Sesame Seeds: Toast the sesame seeds lightly to enhance their flavor without burning them.