Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots

🥕🌿 Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots 🥕🌿

What is it?
Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots is a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of baby carrots with the fruity and slightly licorice-like flavor of apricots and the aromatic essence of tarragon. This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses.

History:
The precise origin of this dish is unclear, but it likely emerged as a result of culinary experimentation. Carrots have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, while apricots and tarragon have also been used in cooking for their unique flavors. Combining these ingredients may have been a creative way to enhance the appeal of carrots.

Components:

• Baby carrots: Fresh, small carrots that have a sweeter and more tender taste compared to their full-sized counterparts.
• Dried apricots: These provide a natural sweetness and chewy texture to the dish.
• Tarragon: An aromatic herb with a slightly anise-like flavor that adds depth and complexity.
• Olive oil: Used for roasting and enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the baby carrots if desired. If the carrots are very small, you can leave them whole; otherwise, you can cut them into bite-sized pieces.

3. Rehydrate the Apricots: Place the dried apricots in a small bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes until they become plump and rehydrated. Drain and chop them into small pieces.

4. Season and Toss: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby carrots, chopped apricots, and fresh tarragon leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the carrots are evenly coated.

5. Roast: Spread the carrot mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring once or twice during cooking.

6. Serve: Once the carrots are done, remove them from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. You can garnish with a few extra tarragon leaves for added freshness and aroma.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 20-25 minutes
• Total: Approximately 35-40 minutes

Enjoy your Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots as a vibrant and flavorful side dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds! 🥕🌿😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots:

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 100-120 kcal
• Total Fat: 4-6 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 200-250 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-18 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3-4 grams
• Sugars: 8-10 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Vitamin A: 250-300% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 10-15% of the DV
• Calcium: 2-4% of the DV
• Iron: 2-4% of the DV

Health Information:

• Low in Calories: Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots are relatively low in calories, making them a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

• Rich in Vitamin A: Carrots are exceptionally high in vitamin A, with one serving providing a significant portion of your daily requirement. Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision, skin, and immune function.

• Fiber Content: This dish contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.

• Natural Sugars: The sugars in this dish primarily come from the dried apricots and the natural sweetness of carrots. These sugars are not added sugars, making the dish a healthier option.

• Low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol: Apricot and Tarragon Baby Carrots are low in saturated fat and completely cholesterol-free, which aligns with heart-healthy eating habits.

• Vitamin C: While not as high as vitamin A, this dish still provides a decent amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and overall health.

• Nutrient Dense: This dish is nutrient-dense, offering vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.

Remember that the actual nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. These values are approximate and can be adjusted depending on individual preferences and dietary needs.