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Baked carrot fries transform ordinary root vegetables into something extraordinary. These vibrant orange beauties develop a wonderful crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior when roasted at high heat. The natural sweetness of carrots intensifies during baking, creating a deliciously addictive alternative to traditional potato fries.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a winter when local carrots were abundant at my farmers' market. My first attempt convinced me these weren't just a healthy substitute—they were genuinely crave-worthy on their own merits.
Outstanding Ingredients
- Carrots: Choose firm, bright orange carrots with smooth skin. Larger carrots work best for uniform fry shapes.
- Avocado Oil: High smoke point ensures crispiness without overpowering natural sweetness.
- Aromatic Spices: Smoked paprika and garlic powder enhance depth without overpowering.
- Fresh Thyme: Adds earthiness and releases aromatic oils during roasting.
- Arrowroot Powder: Forms a thin coating that helps create a crispy exterior.
- Quality Salt: Sea salt enhances flavor, while flaky Maldon salt adds textural interest.
Cooking Process
- Prepare Your Canvas:
- Wash and dry carrots. Cut into uniform sticks about ¼-inch thick and 3-4 inches long.
- Season With Purpose:
- Toss carrots with avocado oil. Sprinkle with arrowroot powder and toss again until evenly coated.
- Add Flavor Layers:
- Incorporate paprika, garlic powder, fresh thyme, and sea salt. Toss thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Arrange Thoughtfully:
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Monitor The Magic:
- Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for caramelized edges and a fork-tender interior.
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Growing up, my grandmother always kept a garden full of carrots. She taught me that roasting transforms them completely from the bland steamed versions many people dislike.
Perfect Companions
Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a nutritious dinner. They pair beautifully with a juicy burger as a healthier alternative to fries. For an impressive appetizer, arrange them with roasted vegetables and dipping sauces.
Creative Twists
Customize the seasoning with curry powder and cumin for Indian-inspired fries. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Rainbow carrots create a visually stunning presentation. For a sweet version, drizzle with honey and cinnamon.
Freshness Preservation
Store cooled fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess. Prep and season raw carrots up to two days in advance for easy cooking.
Aioli Creation
Make the paprika garlic aioli by mixing avocado oil mayonnaise with finely minced garlic, smoked paprika, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Let rest for at least 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
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After years of experimenting with vegetable sides, these carrot fries remain a favorite. Their combination of sweetness, crispiness, and irresistible aioli makes them the highlight of any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these carrot fries without arrowroot powder?
- Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for arrowroot powder, or skip it altogether, though it helps create that crispy exterior. The fries will still be delicious but might not get quite as crispy.
- → How do I cut carrots into fry shapes?
- First, trim the ends off your carrots. Cut them in half crosswise, then slice each piece lengthwise into planks about 1/4-inch thick. Cut each plank into sticks. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- → Can I make the paprika garlic aioli ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The aioli can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop nicely as it sits.
- → What can I serve with these carrot fries?
- These carrot fries pair perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, grilled chicken, or fish. They also make a great appetizer or snack on their own with the aioli dip.
- → Can I make these vegan?
- Yes! For vegan carrot fries, simply substitute the avocado oil mayo in the aioli with a vegan mayo alternative. The carrot fries themselves are already vegan-friendly.