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If you’ve ever tasted a dish that made your taste buds dance, you will understand the allure of Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots. This dish is not just a simple side; it’s an explosion of flavors that celebrates the vibrant world of North African cuisine. Harissa, a spicy chili paste hailing from Tunisia, adds a fiery kick to the inherently sweet and earthy profile of roasted carrots, creating a tantalizing contrast that is both comforting and exciting.

Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots

Discover the vibrant and delicious world of Fiery Harissa Roasted Carrots, a dish inspired by North African cuisine. This recipe transforms simple carrots into a flavor-packed experience, combining their natural sweetness with the spicy warmth of harissa. Perfect for a side dish or as a centerpiece on a vegetarian platter, these carrots offer not just taste but also a connection to culinary traditions. Learn how to prepare them with tips for ingredient selection, cooking techniques, and serving suggestions to impress your guests. Bring a burst of flavor to your meals and elevate your cooking with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients
  

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

3 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for extra heat

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Prepare the Carrots: If using regular carrots, cut them into uniform sticks about 1/2 inch thick. If using baby carrots, leave them whole but you can slice them in half lengthwise for better roasting.

      Mix the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the harissa paste, olive oil, honey (if using), ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

        Coat the Carrots: Add the carrot sticks to the bowl and toss them in the harissa mixture until they are evenly coated.

          Roast the Carrots: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This will ensure they roast evenly and develop a nice char.

            Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. Give them a stir halfway through to promote even cooking.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the carrots are roasted, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro and extra crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish, or let them cool and serve as a salad topping.

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