Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the carrots, then cut each into uniform sticks about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick—aim for even sizes so they cook uniformly and stay crispy.
- Place the carrot sticks in a mixing bowl and drizzle with about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. This helps them crisp up and develop flavor.
- Add a pinch of flaky sea salt, smoked paprika, and ground cumin to the bowl. Toss again to distribute the spices evenly over all the carrot sticks.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded—this allows air to circulate and ensures crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through with tongs or a spatula. They will turn a golden brown with some charred edges and smell sweet and smoky as they cook.
- If you’d like a caramelized glaze, brush the hot fries lightly with honey or maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking, then return to the oven to finish.
- Once the fries are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright contrast to the smoky sweetness.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt to taste and serve warm right away. They’re best enjoyed when crispy, with a satisfying crunch and a hint of smoky spice.
Notes
For extra crunch, ensure carrots are cut into uniform pieces and spread out well. You can experiment with different spices like cayenne or garlic powder for variation. Reheat in a hot oven to regain crispiness if needed.
