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Smashed Carrots with Brown Sugar and Red Pepper Flakes Recipe

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3.8 from 23 reviews

This Smashed Carrots recipe features tender boiled carrot coins that are gently smashed, brushed with melted butter, and baked until caramelized and flavorful. Finished with a sprinkle of brown sugar, kosher salt, and an optional kick of red pepper flakes, these smashed carrots make a delightful side dish with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Carrots

  • 2 extra large carrots (only the flat ends)

Seasoning

  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
  • Brown sugar (to taste)
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Olive oil cooking spray (for baking sheet)

Instructions

  1. Boil Water and Preheat Oven: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil on the stovetop and simultaneously preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
  2. Prepare Carrots: Peel the carrots thoroughly and trim off the root ends. Reserve the narrow ends for another recipe.
  3. Slice Carrots: Starting at the fat end of the carrot, cut into 3/4-inch thick coins. Stop slicing once the carrot becomes narrow.
  4. Cook Carrots: Drop the carrot coins into the boiling water and cook for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain the carrots well.
  5. Prepare Baking Sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  6. Smash Carrots: Place the boiled carrot coins on the baking sheet. Using the flat end of a drinking glass, gently smash each carrot piece to break it down slightly without breaking it apart.
  7. Add Butter: Brush the smashed carrots generously with melted unsalted butter to coat evenly.
  8. Season: Sprinkle the carrot coins with brown sugar and kosher salt according to your taste.
  9. Add Heat (Optional): If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the carrots to add a spicy kick.
  10. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the carrots for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the edges to caramelize.
  11. Broil: Increase the oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning, until the carrots have a nice golden finish.

Notes

  • Use only the thick, flat ends of the carrots; reserve narrow ends for other uses.
  • Smashing the carrots helps them absorb butter and seasoning better while creating a unique texture.
  • Adjust brown sugar and salt to your preference to balance sweetness and savoriness.
  • Keep an eye on the carrots when broiling to prevent burning as they can brown quickly.
  • This side dish pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/smashed-carrots-with-brown-sugar-and-red-pepper-flakes-recipe/