How to Get Grilled Carrots in Foil Caramelized

Carrots are naturally sweet and versatile veggies you can cook in many ways. This root vegetable never fails to impress, from baking to steaming to roasting. But how about throwing it on the grill and giving them a nice char? Sounds delicious, right?

Let’s dive deeper into how to make grilled carrots in foil and get that glossy, caramelized effect.

Grilled Carrots in Foil – A Look into the Dish

Grilled carrots make the perfect side dish for many different reasons. Grilling them at medium heat brings out their natural sweetness and earthy tones, adding new depths and dimensions.

Additionally, grilling these veggies draws out their juices, which gives them the caramelized effect that further amps up the dish’s flavor. Grilling carrots in foil can also help soften them, making them easier to bite into.

These veggies are loaded with vitamin A and other vital nutrients, so they’re a healthy side dish to add to your table. Plus, carrots pair well with just about any protein, including chicken, pork, and steak, allowing you to create delicious, filling meals.

What Size Carrots Do You Need?

Medium-sized carrots are best, so you can bet big, round slices about ¾ inch in diameter when you cut them. You can use baby carrots, too.

Step-By-Step Recipe to Make the Perfect Caramelized Grilled Carrots

To make these grilled carrots, you will need the following:

Carrots, regular or rainbow
Vinegar
Soy Sauce
Italian herbs
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Green onions

Should You Peel Carrots Before Grilling Them?

Contrary to popular belief, peeling carrots is a personal choice. There is no harm in eating or cooking carrots with their skin on. Most people prefer peeling them before grilling because they look neater and taste sweeter. If you choose not to peel the carrot first, wash and scrub it properly before putting it on the grill.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

The first thing you need to do is prepare the dressing for carrots. Pour the vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Italian herbs into a bowl. Add up to two tablespoons of olive oil and whisk the mixture until it becomes consistent.

2. Grill the Carrots

Next, grill the carrots on low heat. Place your carrots on a broad sheet of aluminum foil and coat them with the dressing you made in step one. Spread them evenly on the foil, folding the edges of the sheet to keep them contained. Then, carefully place the sheet on the grill, letting the carrots cook for at least ten minutes.

3. Caramelize the Carrots

Open the grill, stir the carrots, and close the grill again for fifteen to twenty more minutes. Once their edges have caramelized and they look fork-tender, remove the carrots from the grill. Transfer them to the serving platter and garnish with green onions and a few drops of the remaining sauce.

Which Side of Foil Do You Grill On?

Many people wonder what side of foil they should use during grilling. Let’s bust this myth right now; there is no right side of the foil for grilling vegetables. Both sides are the same material and grill in the same way.

What to Serve with Grilled Caramelized Carrots?

The options are endless for what to serve with grilled caramelized carrots. From beer can chicken to burgers and steak, you can pair this recipe with almost anything to create a filling, hearty meal.

How to Store Them

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, and then transfer them into an airtight container. You can refrigerate any leftover caramelized carrots for up to five days.

You can also freeze any leftovers. Again, let the carrots cool first, then put them into an airtight container and stick them in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw in the fridge, then reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet.

Variations

Our grilled caramelized carrots recipe is so simple yet big on flavor, but here are some of our favorite variations to amp it up even more.

Mix Other Vegetables

There is no such thing as too many vegetables. So, mix your favorite eggplant, bell pepper, green beans, and parsnips (with your carrots or alone )to create a healthy and mouth-watering combination.

Add in Other Seasonings

Try tossing the carrots with any other seasoning on hand or sprinkle them with garlic powder, kosher salt, or mint leaves to maximize the freshness.

Spray Some Lemon Juice

Give your caramelized carrots a spritz of fresh lemon juice or squeeze lemon wedges over them to intensify the flavor and brightness.

Use Butter

Want to add depth and richness to the carrots? If so, use unsalted butter instead of olive oil to bring out more sweetness.

Final Thoughts

We hope this post encourages you to try this easy glazing technique and helps you make the most mouth-watering and flavorful grilled caramelized carrots you have ever had.

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