Spicy Maple Roast Carrots with Crispy Chickpeas and Yogurt Sauce

Introduction

Spicy maple roast carrots with crispy chickpeas and yogurt sauce are a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. This dish combines earthy roasted carrots, crunchy chickpeas, and a tangy yogurt sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main course for a healthy meal. Plus, the beautiful presentation makes it an excellent choice for entertaining guests.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients that are likely in your pantry. It balances flavors really well, with the sweetness of maple syrup contrasting the spiciness of sriracha. The crispy chickpeas add a fun texture, making every bite interesting. Finally, it’s a nutritious dish packed with vitamins and protein, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Spicy Maple Roast Carrots with Crispy Chickpeas

Making this dish involves roasting and mixing a few ingredients to create a wholesome meal. The process is straightforward and doesn’t take too much time.

Ingredients:

16 Dutch carrots (scrubbed clean and tops trimmed)
600 g (1.2 lb) regular carrots (peeled, cut into quarters)
3 tbsp maple syrup (or 2 ½ tbsp honey)
2 tbsp sriracha
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
400g (14 oz) can chickpeas (drained but not dried)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp maple syrup
½ tbsp sriracha
1 cup plain yogurt
½ tsp garlic (finely grated)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
¼ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
2 tbsp finely chopped coriander or cilantro leaves (sub parsley)
3 tbsp toasted pistachios (finely chopped)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (425°F). Arrange the oven racks so they are 20 cm (8") apart.
Drain the chickpeas and spread them on a tray while still wet. Toss the carrots with the maple syrup and sriracha ingredients in a bowl. Place both trays in the oven, with the carrots on the top shelf.
After 10 minutes, remove the chickpeas and push them to one side of the tray. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with spices, salt, and pepper. Toss well and return them to the oven for another 20-25 minutes until crisp.
Roast the carrots for 30 minutes, tossing halfway until they are tender and caramelized.
Mix the yogurt sauce ingredients in a bowl and let sit for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to develop.
Spread the yogurt sauce on a plate. Add the roasted carrots on top, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle with crispy chickpeas, coriander, and pistachios. Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Maple Roast Carrots with Crispy Chickpeas

This dish is best served warm. You can serve it as a side dish or as a main vegetarian meal. Pair it with rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. The yogurt sauce can be drizzled on top or served on the side for dipping.

How to Store Spicy Maple Roast Carrots with Crispy Chickpeas

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The roasted carrots will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. However, the chickpeas can lose their crispiness when stored, so it’s best to eat them fresh.

Tips to Make Spicy Maple Roast Carrots with Crispy Chickpeas

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of sriracha used.
You can substitute different herbs for the cilantro, such as parsley or dill, based on your preference.
Ensure the chickpeas are well-drained for maximum crispiness in the oven.

Variation

You can easily add other vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers for more flavor and color. Adjust the roasting time accordingly for different vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots?
It’s better to use fresh carrots for this recipe to get the ideal texture and flavor. Frozen carrots may become mushy when roasted.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. Just remember that chickpeas may lose their crunch over time.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can adjust the yogurt sauce by using a plant-based yogurt alternative to keep it vegan while still creamy.

Enjoy this delicious recipe of spicy maple roast carrots with crispy chickpeas and yogurt sauce! It is sure to be a hit!