This Miso Maple Glazed Carrots recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it strikes that perfect balance between savory and sweet, making even simple weeknight dinners feel special. The glaze clings to the carrots, giving them a glossy finish and a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. I often serve these as a side dish for roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.

What makes this recipe stand out is the way the miso and maple syrup come together—the miso brings a subtle umami, while the maple syrup adds just enough sweetness. The aroma as they roast is warm and inviting, and the carrots come out tender with a caramelized edge. I find myself making these for both holiday gatherings and quick family meals.

The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, which is a big plus on busy days. I like to garnish the finished carrots with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh herbs for a little extra texture and color. These carrots are just as good at room temperature, so they’re easy to make ahead if needed.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

You’ll love this recipe for its bold flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of miso and maple syrup creates a unique glaze that elevates basic carrots into something memorable. It’s a versatile side that fits both casual and special meals.

• Simple, everyday ingredients
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly
• Pairs well with a variety of mains
• Great for meal prep or gatherings

Ingredients

The ingredient list is short and straightforward. You’ll need fresh carrots, a few pantry staples for the glaze, and a couple of optional garnishes. Make sure to use real maple syrup for the best flavor, and choose white or yellow miso for a milder, balanced taste.

• 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 2-3 inch sticks
• 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

The steps are simple: whisk the glaze, toss the carrots, and roast until tender and caramelized. The glaze thickens as it cooks, coating the carrots beautifully. Follow these steps for reliable results every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the miso paste, maple syrup, olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the peeled and cut carrots to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized at the edges.
6. Transfer the carrots to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh herbs if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Chef Tips

A few small tweaks can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are some tips to help you get the best results every time you make these glazed carrots.

• Cut carrots evenly for uniform roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if needed.
• For extra caramelization, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
• Taste the glaze before roasting and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish just before serving to keep herbs fresh.

Substitutions

This recipe is flexible if you need to swap ingredients. Here are some easy substitutions to fit what you have on hand or dietary needs.

• Use honey instead of maple syrup (not vegan).
• Swap white miso for red miso for a stronger flavor.
• Avocado or melted coconut oil can replace olive oil.
• Apple cider vinegar works in place of rice vinegar.
• Try baby carrots for convenience—just adjust roasting time.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover glazed carrots store well and make a great addition to salads or grain bowls. Here’s how to keep them fresh and reheat them without losing texture.

• Store cooled carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore texture.
• Microwave gently in 30-second bursts if in a hurry.
• Serve leftovers cold or at room temperature in salads.

Perfect Pairings

These carrots pair well with a variety of mains and sides. The sweet-salty glaze complements both hearty and lighter dishes. Here are a few pairing ideas to round out your meal.

• Roast chicken or turkey
• Grilled tofu or tempeh
• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• A dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving miso maple glazed carrots. These tips should help you troubleshoot and adapt the recipe as needed.

Nutritional Note

Each serving is approximately 120 calories, with moderate carbs and a small amount of healthy fat. This is an estimate and will vary based on exact ingredients and portions.