Optional Variations:
Honey or Brown Sugar Swap: If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, feel free to swap it out for honey or brown sugar. Both will still lend a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish.
Herb-Infused Bacon: You can sprinkle rosemary or thyme directly onto the bacon before wrapping the carrots for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the maple syrup before glazing.
Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s dive into how to make these Maple-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Carrots:
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prep the Carrots: Wash and peel the carrots. If the carrots are thick, consider slicing them lengthwise so they roast evenly.
Wrap with Bacon: Take each carrot and wrap a strip of bacon around it. You want the bacon to overlap slightly, creating a snug wrap. Secure the bacon at the ends if necessary with toothpicks.
Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Carrots: Brush the maple glaze mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped carrots. Make sure each carrot is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Roast to Perfection: Arrange the glazed carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the carrots are tender.
Optional Garnish: For a touch of freshness, garnish with freshly chopped thyme before serving.
Pro Tip:
If you notice the bacon cooking faster than the carrots, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or tent the baking sheet with foil for the last few minutes of cooking to prevent the bacon from burning.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools:
