Roast dinner enthusiasts have been handed a major time-saving tip this festive season, with a new recipe promising perfectly caramelised carrots in a fraction of the usual oven time.
The Oven-Free Shortcut to Sweet, Crisp Carrots
Caramelised carrots are a beloved side dish, offering a delightful sweetness that complements a succulent roast chicken or a traditional Christmas banquet. However, the traditional roasting method can be a lengthy process, eating into precious kitchen time when preparing a full spread.
Now, Maldon Salt has shared a game-changing recipe that swaps the oven for the air fryer. The method requires a mere five minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking at 200°C, serving four people. This cuts the typical cooking time significantly, offering a swift solution for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Why the Air Fryer Works for Caramelisation
While some might worry about burning vegetables in an air fryer, the experts at Maldon Salt assure that the appliance is ideal for this task. It delivers "perfectly caramelised edges with minimal effort", allowing the natural flavours of the carrots to shine through with just a hint of seasoning.
The result is a side dish described as "lightly crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with natural sweetness", elevated by the signature crunch of Maldon Sea Salt flakes.
The Foolproof Recipe: Ingredients and Method
The simple recipe, as reported by the Express, uses a handful of quality ingredients to create an impressive side.
Ingredients:
- 400g baby carrots (such as Wholegood Organic Rainbow Carrots)
- Two tbsp olive oil
- One tbsp honey
- Pinch of Maldon Sea Salt flakes
- Cracked black pepper
- A few sprigs of thyme, leaves picked
Method:
- Begin by scrubbing the carrots clean—there's no need to peel them or trim the tops. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
- Place the carrots in the air fryer basket, drizzle with the olive oil and honey, and cook for approximately 15 minutes. They are ready when tender and beginning to caramelise on the outside.
- Transfer the cooked carrots to a serving dish. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste, then garnish with the fresh thyme leaves before serving immediately.
Serving Suggestions for Your Caramelised Carrots
These versatile carrots are recommended as the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats. They can also be incorporated into a hearty salad to add a wonderful texture and a burst of sweet flavour, making them a flexible addition to any meal plan.
With this efficient air fryer method, achieving a gourmet-level side dish no longer requires hours in the kitchen, freeing up time to enjoy the festivities.
