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SAUTÉED CARROTS WITH PAPRIKA AND CUMIN – SIMPLE & FLAVORFUL SIDE DISH

SAUTÉED CARROTS WITH PAPRIKA AND CUMIN – SIMPLE & FLAVORFUL SIDE DISH

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

  1. Boil carrots until fully tender — either in meat broth, salted water, or steam. Avoid leaving them al dente in the center.
  2. Heat olive oil in a wide skillet or pan over low heat. Add crushed garlic and gently infuse the oil without browning the garlic.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the drained carrots (leave a little cooking liquid on them for moisture). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. 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.
  6. Optionally, stir in butter for extra richness if carrots weren’t cooked in broth.
  7. Remove from heat, add finely chopped parsley, and mix gently.
  8. 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!