Baby carrots don’t have to be boring. With a few spices and a little time in the oven, they can be transformed into this Moroccan-inspired side dish! These Moroccan spiced roasted baby carrots are the perfect addition to any dinner.

I love eating raw carrots, but I have always hated cooked carrots. They just always seem mushy and too sweet, especially the honey-glazed carrots that are served at Thanksgiving. Unless it’s dessert, I do not want any added sweetness in my foods. Marshmallows and brown sugar on sweet potatoes? Gross. Regular roasted sweet potatoes? Delicious! It’s the same thing with carrots. Glaze belongs on donuts, not vegetables!

Recently, I have been stepping out of my comfort zone and trying foods that I thought I didn’t like, but prepared differently. That’s how I discovered that I actually love sweet potatoes, as long as they’re not covered in brown sugar and marshmallows! Along the way, I’ve also figured out that I love avocado, caramelized onions, hummus, and a handful of other foods that I previously avoided at all costs (I still hate mushrooms though). As part of my journey of trying foods I thought I didn’t like, I decided to give roasted carrots another chance. This time, I added a savory blend of spices inspired by Moroccan cuisine. While the carrots were in the oven, the aroma of the spices filled my kitchen and my mouth actually started to water. When I pulled them out and tried them, well… let’s just say I’ve changed my mind about cooked carrots!

What are Moroccan Spices?

Moroccan spices are a mix of flavorful spices used in Moroccan cooking. These spices, like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, are combined to create a rich and unique taste in Moroccan dishes. They give Moroccan cuisine its distinct and delicious flavor.

How To Make Moroccan Spiced Roasted Baby Carrots

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb baby carrots
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large clove garlic minced
• 1/2 tsp fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Lightly grease a baking sheet, and arrange carrots in a single layer on it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, add remaining ingredients, and toss to combine.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until carrots are browned and tender.
5. Remove baking sheet from oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips for Making Moroccan Spiced Roasted Baby Carrots

• Carrot Size Matters: Choose uniform-sized baby carrots for even roasting. This ensures that all the carrots cook at the same rate.
• Check for Doneness: Pierce the carrots with a fork or knife during the last few minutes of roasting. They should be tender but not mushy. Adjust the roasting time accordingly.
• Enhance Flavors: Experiment with additional spices or herbs to customize the flavor. Coriander, paprika, or a touch of honey can add extra depth to the dish.
• Drizzle with Citrus: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or orange juice over the roasted carrots just before serving. The citrus brightness can complement the warm Moroccan spices.
• Serve with Dips: Accompany the carrots with a side of tahini or yogurt-based dip. The creamy dip provides a cooling contrast to the warm and spiced carrots.

FAQ

How long to roast baby carrots

• Roast baby carrots at 400°F for 30-35 minutes, or until they are browned and tender. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach your desired level of doneness.

What makes the Moroccan spice blend unique?

• Moroccan spices typically include a mix of warm and aromatic flavors, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin. This blend gives the roasted baby carrots a distinctive North African taste.

Can I use regular-sized carrots instead of baby carrots?

• Yes, you can. Adjust the roasting time accordingly and consider slicing larger carrots into smaller, evenly-sized pieces for consistent cooking.

How do I prevent the carrots from drying out during roasting?

• Ensure the carrots are well-coated in olive oil before roasting. Additionally, cover them loosely with foil for part of the roasting time, removing it toward the end for a golden finish.

Are there alternative garnishes for these carrots?

• Certainly! Besides cilantro, you can garnish with fresh parsley, chopped mint, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.