Chili roasted carrots are a tasty side dish that brings together the sweetness of carrots with a little kick. Simply roast them in the oven with chili seasoning for a fun twist!
These carrots are not just colorful, they’re also easy to make. I love how they brighten up any meal—perfect for when you want something healthy and delicious without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for this recipe, but if you have regular carrots, just peel and cut them into sticks. They add the same sweetness and texture. I often find that roasting large carrots gives them a nice caramelization.
Chili Powder: You can use any chili powder you like. If you prefer a milder spice, try using paprika instead. Sometimes, I mix in a dash of cayenne pepper for a little extra heat!
Olive Oil: This helps the carrots roast evenly and get that nice golden brown color. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil has a high smoking point and works well too.
Cilantro: This adds a fresh touch at the end. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to use parsley or omit it altogether. The flavors will still shine through!
How Can I Ensure My Carrots Roast Perfectly?
The key to roasting carrots is in the preparation and cooking method. Evenly cutting the carrots ensures they cook at the same rate. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this lets them get that delicious roasted texture.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated before putting in the carrots to get that perfect caramelization.
- Turning the carrots halfway through roasting is important to ensure they brown evenly.
- Feel free to adjust the roasting time depending on how tender and caramelized you like your carrots. Checking them a few minutes before the timer goes off can help.
Chili Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (about 500g) baby carrots or regular carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges or lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Optional dipping sauce (such as a lemony aioli or yogurt sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to roast, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy vegetable side that packs a punch of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the carrots. A hot oven helps them roast perfectly!
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss the baby carrots (or cut regular carrots) with olive oil and all the spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to coat the carrots evenly so every bite is flavorful!
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned carrots out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Leave a little space between each carrot to help them roast evenly and get a nice char.
4. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They’re ready when they are tender and have some nice charred edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once roasted, take the carrots out of the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color. Serve warm, and offer lime or lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce on the side for extra zing!
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can serve as a vibrant and spicy addition to any meal. Enjoy your delicious chili roasted carrots!
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Can I Use Different Seasonings for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices based on your preference. You can try adding a bit of curry powder, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for more heat. Adjusting the flavors to your taste is part of the fun!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No worries! If you don’t have cilantro, you can simply omit it or substitute it with fresh parsley, which also adds a nice touch. You could even use scallions or chives for a different flavor profile!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare and season the carrots ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply roast them as directed, adding a minute or two if they’re still cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes, or warm them in a microwave for a quick snack! You may want to add a light drizzle of olive oil to revive their flavor.