In the realm of vibrant root vegetables, baby carrots have captured the hearts of many with their tender texture and sweet flavor. Elevating these humble carrots to new heights, we introduce you to a delightful recipe: Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots. This tantalizing dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the refreshing zing of citrus, resulting in a mouthwatering blend of flavors. Join us as we delve into the history of carrots, the intriguing background of this recipe, and, of course, the step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece.
A Brief History of Carrots:
Carrots, scientifically known as Daucus carota, have a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Originating in the region now known as Afghanistan, wild carrots were initially cultivated for their aromatic leaves and seeds rather than their roots. It wasn’t until the 17th century in Europe that orange carrots, as we know them today, were developed through selective breeding.
The Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots Recipe:
Now let’s explore the delectable combination of sweet carrots and tangy orange in this roasted dish. The recipe is simple yet yields outstanding results, making it an ideal choice for both everyday cooking and special occasions. This recipe is adapted from the WW recipe Sweet-orange roasted baby carrots.
Points: 1 ~ Total Time: 55 minutes ~ Prep Time: 10 minutes ~ Cook Time: 45 minutes ~ Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons fresh grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Procedure Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss all ingredients together in a 9X13-inch baking pan until well-coated. Cover with foil and bake, shaking pan once to toss, until carrots are crisp-tender, about 35 minutes.
- Uncover pan and roast until carrots are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 8 to 10 minutes more. Yields about 3/4 cup per serving.
With their origins rooted in ancient times, carrots have evolved to become a beloved vegetable worldwide. By combining their inherent sweetness with the vibrant flavors of orange, we’ve crafted a simple yet exquisite dish that will awaken your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to savor the tantalizing blend of flavors in Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots.
