What You’ll Need: The Ingredients
Produce
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting Started
- Prep the Veggies: Peel and slice the carrots into rounds. Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. I like to keep the apple pieces a bit larger, so they don’t completely disappear during cooking.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure the mustard is fully incorporated for a smooth glaze.
Cooking Time
- Sauté the Carrots: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the carrots in batches.
- Add the Apples: Add the chopped apples to the skillet with the carrots. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring gently, until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll turn to mush!
- Glaze It Up: Pour the Maple Dijon sauce over the carrots and apples. Stir to coat everything evenly. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the vegetables are nicely glazed.
Finishing Touches
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Maple Dijon Perfection
I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to ensure it turns out perfectly every single time. Let’s dive into some of my best tips!
Choosing the Right Apples
The type of apple you use can significantly impact the final dish. I prefer using Honeycrisp or Gala apples because they hold their shape well during cooking and have a delightful sweetness that complements the Dijon mustard. Other good options include Fuji or Pink Lady. Avoid apples that tend to get mushy, like Red Delicious.
Preventing Soggy Apples
Nobody wants mushy apples! To prevent them from becoming soggy, don’t overcook them. Add them to the skillet after the carrots have started to soften, and only cook them until they are slightly tender but still firm. Also, make sure the heat is not too high; a gentle simmer is all you need.
Adjusting the Sweetness and Tang
The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust the sweetness and tang to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more maple syrup. For a tangier flavor, add a bit more Dijon mustard. Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the ingredients accordingly.
Making it Ahead of Time
Maple Dijon Apples and Carrots can be made ahead of time and reheated. Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration.
Variations to Spice Things Up
Want to get creative? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the dish for added crunch and flavor.
- Incorporate Other Vegetables: Add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a more complex flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Pairings
Maple Dijon Apples and Carrots is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Roasted Chicken or Turkey: The sweet and savory flavors complement poultry beautifully.
- Pork Tenderloin: A classic combination that’s always a hit.
- Grilled Salmon: The glaze adds a lovely touch to the richness of the salmon.
- Vegetarian Dishes: Serve alongside a hearty lentil loaf or a vegetable-based casserole for a complete and satisfying meal.
Other Delicious Apple Creations
If you love the taste of apples as much as I do, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few other apple-centric recipes you absolutely must try.
- For a refreshing and vibrant salad, try the Honeycrisp Apple Salad. It’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- If you’re craving a comforting dessert, you can’t go wrong with Homemade Apple Crisp.
- For a unique dessert experience, the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a showstopper!
- And don’t forget the delightful simplicity of Southern Fried Apples for a quick and tasty treat.
Even More Glazed Vegetable Goodness
If you enjoyed the glazed aspect of this recipe and are looking for more delicious glazed vegetable recipes, here are a couple of my favorites:
- The Honey Glazed Veggies are a fantastic way to get your daily dose of vegetables, coated in a sweet and savory glaze.
- And for another delicious carrot recipe, you have to try the Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots!
Final Thoughts: A Flavor Adventure
Maple Dijon Apples And Carrots is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apples, the earthiness of the carrots, and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard create a symphony in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to be a winner. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with this delightful combination!
What are the best types of apples to use for this recipe?
Honeycrisp or Gala apples are recommended because they hold their shape well during cooking and have a nice sweetness. Fuji or Pink Lady apples are also good options. Avoid apples that get mushy, like Red Delicious.
How can I prevent the apples from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy apples, don’t overcook them. Add them to the skillet after the carrots have started to soften, and cook them until they are slightly tender but still firm. Also, use a gentle simmer instead of high heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Maple Dijon Apples and Carrots can be made ahead of time. Let it cool completely, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat in a skillet over medium heat when ready to serve. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
What are some variations I can try to make this recipe my own?
You can add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes, add red pepper flakes for heat, or experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a unique flavor.
Maple Dijon Apples and Carrots
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and slice the carrots into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add the chopped apples to the skillet with the carrots. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring gently, until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape.
- Pour the Maple Dijon sauce over the carrots and apples. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the vegetables are nicely glazed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
