I recently discovered the magic of maple syrup in savory dishes—it’s like finding a hidden treasure in your pantry, waiting to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. Maple miso roasted carrots have become my go-to for meal prep, and honestly, they taste like autumn wrapped in a cozy blanket. The sweet, earthy aroma fills the kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug on a crisp day, and it’s hard not to sneak a taste before the week’s meals are even planned.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the carrots: Toss them with maple syrup and miso, then roast in the oven until they develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
- While the carrots are roasting, cook your rice according to the package instructions, adding salt to the water for flavor.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and drizzle sesame oil over the top. Gently mix to ensure the oil is evenly distributed for a nutty taste.
- For the kale, tear the leaves from the stems and rinse them thoroughly. Sauté the kale in a hot pot for about five minutes until wilted.
- Divide the cooked rice, roasted carrots, and sautéed kale evenly into meal prep containers for a balanced and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Maple Miso Roasted Carrots
- Curly kale
- 6 cups cooked brown basmati rice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
FAQ
- Can I substitute the carrots with another vegetable?
- Yes, you can replace the carrots with sweet potatoes if you prefer. They offer a similar texture and sweetness, making them a great alternative.
- What can I add to enhance the meal prep?
- You can add avocado for creaminess, a spicy peanut sauce for extra flavor, or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch. Additionally, you can include Sticky Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken if you want to incorporate some meat.
- Is it possible to use a different type of rice?
- Absolutely. While the recipe uses brown basmati rice, you can opt for regular brown rice or even white rice. Just ensure you follow the water-to-rice ratio and cooking time indicated on the package for the rice you choose.
- What containers do you use for meal prep?
- The meal prep is packed in Pyrex 3-cup rectangular containers, which are convenient for portioning and storing.
- How do I prepare the kale for this meal prep?
- The kale preparation is quick and simple. Tear the kale from the stems and rinse it well. It takes about five minutes to wilt down when added to a hot pot.
Tips
- Substitute Ingredients: If you’re looking for a variation, consider swapping out the carrots for sweet potatoes. This can add a different flavor profile while keeping the meal nutritious.
- Enhance with Toppings: Add avocado for a creamy texture or sunflower seeds for a crunchy element. These toppings can elevate the meal’s flavor and texture, especially when avocados are on sale.
- Adjust Rice Type: Feel free to use different types of rice based on your preference or availability. Whether it’s brown basmati, regular brown, or white rice, just follow the specific cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
- Incorporate Proteins: For those looking to add meat, try the Sticky Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken. This can complement the meal nicely and provide additional protein.
Equipment
- Pyrex 3 Cup Rectangular Containers – for meal prep storage and portioning.
- Colander – for rinsing the kale.
- Roasting Pan or Baking Sheet – for roasting the carrots.
- Rice Cooker (optional) – if you prefer not to cook rice on the stovetop and don’t already own one.
