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If you're on the lookout for a bold and vibrant side dish that can elevate any meal, look no further than Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds with its spicy, smoky flavor but also showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. Roasting carrots is a method that brings out their natural sweetness, while the addition of harissa—a North African chili paste—adds a fiery kick that transforms these humble vegetables into a dish worthy of any dinner table.

Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots

Discover the bold flavors of Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots, a vibrant side dish that adds excitement to any meal. This recipe blends sweet, roasted carrots with spicy harissa, a staple in North African cuisine. The roast enhances their natural sweetness while the harissa brings a fiery kick. Perfect for seasonal cooking, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also supports healthy eating with fresh ingredients. Experiment with flavors and enjoy this delightful and nutritious addition to your dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) baby carrots or regular carrots, peeled and cut into sticks

3 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust based on your spice preference)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). To make cleaning up easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Prepare the Carrots: If you’re using regular carrots, slice them into uniform sticks approximately 1/2 inch thick. For baby carrots, you may leave them whole, or slice them in half lengthwise to enhance their roasting.

      Mix the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the harissa paste, extra virgin olive oil, honey (if you choose to add sweetness), ground cumin, smoked paprika, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until everything is well incorporated into a smooth paste.

        Coat the Carrots: Add the carrot sticks to the bowl containing the marinade. Toss them thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the harissa mixture, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.

          Roast the Carrots: Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Proper spacing is key to achieving a perfect roast and developing a lovely char.

            Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20-25 minutes. The goal is to have them tender with beautifully caramelized edges. Stir them midway through the cooking time to promote even roasting.

              Garnish and Serve: After the carrots are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Generously sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and add crushed red pepper flakes if you crave additional heat. Serve immediately as a vibrant and flavorful side dish, or allow them to cool for a delightful salad topping.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, arrange the roasted carrots on a serving platter, garnishing with additional herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.