SAUTÉED CARROTS WITH PAPRIKA AND CUMIN – SIMPLE & FLAVORFUL SIDE DISH
Carrots have often played a supporting role in my kitchen, quietly enhancing soups and stews. But this recipe brings them front and center, inspired by a traditional way my grandmother prepares carrots from chicken soup—quickly sautéed in aromatic oil with paprika and a hint of cumin. The vibrant orange carrots contrasted with fresh parsley make a beautiful and tasty dish that deserves the spotlight.
🕒 Prep Time: 10 min
🍳 Cook Time: 15-20 min
🍽️ Servings: 2-3
🥕 Ingredients
- 500 g mature carrots
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (lightly crushed)
- 1 tsp butter (optional)
- 1/4 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, freshly ground black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
- Boil carrots until fully tender — either in meat broth, salted water, or steam. Avoid leaving them al dente in the center.
- Heat olive oil in a wide skillet or pan over low heat. Add crushed garlic and gently infuse the oil without browning the garlic.
- Remove pan from heat, add paprika and cumin, and quickly stir to dissolve the spices in the oil.
Optional: substitute cumin with coriander seeds if preferred. - Add the drained carrots (leave a little cooking liquid on them for moisture). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Return pan to heat and gently toss the carrots to coat evenly with the spiced oil, allowing the mixture to warm through and the spices to meld.
- Optionally, stir in butter for extra richness if carrots weren’t cooked in broth.
- Remove from heat, add finely chopped parsley, and mix gently.
- Serve warm or at room temperature (especially if no butter is added).
💡 Tips
- For a different flavor profile, try using coriander seeds instead of cumin.
- Make sure not to overcook the carrots to maintain a pleasant texture.
- The garlic infusion is key — keep the heat low to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Fresh parsley adds a lovely color contrast and freshness.
🎉 Perfect For
- Simple yet flavorful side dish with roasted or grilled meats
- Adding vibrant color and taste to vegetarian meals
- Quick weeknight dinners needing minimal prep but big flavor
📝 Final Thoughts
This easy sautéed carrot recipe is a perfect way to elevate a humble vegetable to a star role on your plate. The warmth of paprika and cumin paired with fresh parsley brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, making it a versatile side that fits beautifully with many main dishes. Give your carrots the attention they deserve!