Belgian Charred Rainbow Carrots and Parsnips
Introduction
Grilling root vegetables like rainbow carrots and parsnips on the Arteflame grill brings out their natural sweetness while infusing them with a rich, smoky flavor. Finished with a delightful honey glaze, this easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet side dish. The char from the flat griddle cooktop perfectly caramelizes the vegetables, enhancing their deep, complex taste. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian delight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb rainbow carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise
- 1 lb parsnips, peeled and halved lengthwise
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the fire pit.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
- Light the paper and allow the wood to catch fire.
- Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the vegetables
- Peel and halve the carrots and parsnips lengthwise.
- In a bowl, toss the vegetables with melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Grill the vegetables
- Place the vegetables on the flat cooktop griddle, positioning them near the center for a hotter sear.
- Let them cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.
- Move them towards the outer griddle area for another 5 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 4: Finish and serve
- Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the caramelized vegetables.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Tips
- For extra caramelization, drizzle a little more honey during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Grill in a single layer for even charring.
- Use fresh, firm vegetables for the best texture.
Variations
- Spicy Maple Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Mix butter with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme for an aromatic depth of flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the grilled veggies for a tangy-sweet taste.
- Lemon Zest Boost: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving for a refreshing citrus note.
- Parmesan Crusted: Top the vegetables with grated parmesan in the last few minutes of grilling for a cheesy, crispy finish.
Conclusion
Grilling rainbow carrots and parsnips on the Arteflame grill brings out deep smoky-sweet notes, making this dish a must-try. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a stand-alone dish, these fire-kissed veggies are packed with flavor. The Arteflame’s flat cooktop ensures even caramelization, elevating simple ingredients to an extraordinary dish.
Best pairings
- Grilled ribeye steak for a blend of smoky grilled perfection
- Butter-seared lamb chops for a savory richness
- Belgian-style beers such as a dubbel or tripel to enhance the caramelized flavors
- Grilled garlic bread for a satisfying crunch on the side
- Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast