Creative Ways to Cook with Carrots that Go Beyond the Basics

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Carrot "Bacon"

Carrot "bacon" is a smoky, crispy, and flavorful plant-based alternative to traditional bacon. Thinly sliced carrots are marinated in a savory blend of maple syrup, smoked paprika, and soy sauce, then baked until perfectly crisp. It’s a delicious way to add crunch and depth to sandwiches, salads, or breakfast plates!

Ingredients (for 2-3 servings):

• 2 large carrots
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the carrots and slice them into long, thin strips using a vegetable peeler or mandoline.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Toss the carrot strips in the marinade and let them soak for at least 10 min. to absorb the flavors.
5. Arrange the marinated carrot strips on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
6. Bake for 12-15 min., flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
7. Let cool for a few minutes—the carrot bacon will crisp up further as it cools.
8. Serve immediately as a crispy topping for avocado toast, in BLTs, or as a standalone snack!