Smoked carrots have a unique and delicious flavor that is both earthy and smoky. The natural sweetness of the carrots is intensified by the smoking process, resulting in a rich and satisfying taste. The texture of the carrots becomes tender and slightly caramelized on the outside, while still maintaining a firm and toothsome bite. This recipe is a great way to add a smoky twist to a classic vegetable side.
Jump to RecipeHow to Choose Fresh Carrots
When choosing the best fresh carrots, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of cracks, blemishes, or soft spots. The color of the carrot should be bright and uniform, with a healthy green stem.
Avoid carrots that are slimy, discolored, or have started to sprout, as this is a sign of spoilage. The size of the carrot will not necessarily affect its taste, so choose the size that is most convenient for you or that you prefer.
How to Store Fresh Carrots
To store fresh carrots, remove the greens and gently wash the carrots under cool running water. Dry them thoroughly with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel. Next, wrap the carrots in a damp paper towel or store them in a plastic bag that is perforated to allow for air circulation. Store the carrots in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, where they can last for up to two weeks.
Avoid storing carrots near ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas, as this can cause the carrots to spoil faster. Proper storage of carrots can help to preserve their flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Wood Pairing for Smoked Carrots
Smoking carrots using cherry and apple wood can add delicious flavors to the dish. Cherry wood offers a fruity and slightly sweet taste that complements the natural sweetness of the carrots. Apple wood provides a subtle sweetness that adds a pleasant aroma and flavor to the dish. Both types of wood impart a mild smoke flavor that won’t overpower the carrots.
When smoking carrots, it’s best to avoid woods that have a strong or bitter taste, such as mesquite. These woods can easily overpower the delicate flavor of the carrots and create an unpleasant taste. Instead, fruitwoods like cherry and apple offer a mild and sweet flavor that enhances the natural taste of the carrots without dominating it.
Smoked Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 lb. large carrots
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
Seasoning
- 1 tbsp. sea salt
- 1 tbsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
Recommended Wood
- cherry wood or apple wood
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the carrots, and if desired, peel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the carrots with the olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are evenly coated.
- Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
Cook
- Once the smoker is preheated, place the carrots on the smoker grates or in a smoker basket.
- Smoke the carrots for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.
- Remove the carrots from the smoker and serve hot.
Notes
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 1g
How to Store Smoked Carrots
To store smoked carrots, allow them to cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store the smoked carrots in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to five days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the smoked carrots for up to six months.
Before freezing, remove any excess air from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw the smoked carrots in the refrigerator.
How to Reheat Smoked Carrots
To reheat smoked carrots, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the smoked carrots from the refrigerator and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the carrots with a little bit of olive oil or butter to prevent them from drying out, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake the smoked carrots for 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through.
If you prefer, you can also reheat smoked carrots on the stovetop or grill by heating them in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat until they are warmed through. Proper reheating of smoked carrots will help to maintain their smoky flavor and tender texture.
What are Carrots?
Carrots are a root vegetable that are widely consumed around the world. They have a crisp texture and a sweet, earthy flavor. Carrot plants are grown in temperate regions with well-drained soil and ample sunlight.
In North America, carrots are typically in season from May through October, although they are available year-round due to their long shelf life. Carrots are grown in many parts of the United States, including California, Texas, and Michigan.
Carrots are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
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