Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, these Bacon-Wrapped Carrots with Maple Glaze are the perfect choice. This recipe takes the natural sweetness of carrots, wraps them in crispy bacon, and finishes with a sticky maple glaze, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for holiday meals, dinner parties, or just an everyday treat, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy a simple yet flavorful side dish that adds a gourmet touch to any meal. The combination of crispy bacon and the natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by a maple glaze makes each bite delightful. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and bake, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds carrots, peeled and less than ½ inch thick
- 2 pounds thin-sliced bacon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the carrots while allowing the bacon to crisp up nicely.
- Wrap the Carrots: Take one slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around each carrot, starting from the thicker end. Ensure that the bacon covers the carrot evenly but avoid overlapping the bacon too much, as this will prevent it from crisping up properly.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the bacon-wrapped carrots on a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet. The wire rack will help air circulate around the carrots, ensuring the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Bake the Carrots: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the carrots are tender. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your carrots, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Glaze with Maple Syrup: Once the bacon is crispy, remove the carrots from the oven and generously brush all sides with maple syrup. The syrup adds a beautiful sweetness that complements the savory bacon.
- Finish Baking: Return the carrots to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. This final bake helps the maple syrup caramelize, giving the dish a glossy, sticky finish.
- Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your sweet and savory bacon-wrapped carrots hot, straight from the oven!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Peeler for carrots
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Tips and Shortcuts
- Carrot Selection: Choose carrots that are uniform in size for even cooking. If your carrots are too thick, consider cutting them in half lengthwise.
- Bacon Choice: Thin-sliced bacon works best as it crisps up nicely without overcooking the carrots. Avoid thick-cut bacon for this recipe.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid pancake syrup or any artificial substitutes, as they won’t provide the same rich taste.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Vegetable Variation: Try using parsnips or sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a different take on this recipe.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary over the carrots before wrapping them in bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the maple syrup before brushing it onto the carrots for a sweet and spicy version.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the bacon is crispy again.
Food and Drink Pairings
These bacon-wrapped carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or beef. A light salad or roasted Brussels sprouts would also complement the richness of the dish. For drinks, consider serving with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare these carrots ahead of time? A: Yes, you can wrap the carrots in bacon and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the maple glaze until just before baking.
Q: What can I use instead of maple syrup? A: If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave nectar as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I make this dish on the grill? A: Yes, you can grill the bacon-wrapped carrots over medium heat, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the carrots are tender.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling? A: If you’re worried about the bacon unraveling, you can secure it with a toothpick before baking. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Bacon-Wrapped Carrots with Maple Glaze
Description
Discover a savory twist with Bacon-Wrapped Carrots drizzled in a sweet maple glaze – the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). 
Wrap the Carrots: Take one slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around each carrot, starting from the thicker end. Be sure to avoid overlapping the bacon as you wrap. 
Prepare for Baking: Place the bacon-wrapped carrots on a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet. This will help the bacon crisp up evenly. 
Bake the Carrots: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the carrots are tender. 
Glaze with Maple Syrup: Remove the carrots from the oven and brush all sides with maple syrup. 
Finish Baking: Return the carrots to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze. 
Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your sweet and savory bacon-wrapped carrots! 