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maple roasted parsnips with thyme cozy night recipe

Maple Roasted Parsnips with Thyme Cozy Night

Embrace the warmth of home with this maple roasted parsnips with thyme cozy night recipe. This straightforward yet incredibly flavorful dish transforms humble parsnips into a star attraction, perfect for those evenings when you crave comforting, delicious food without the fuss. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy and satisfying creation.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Not specified

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds parsnips peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup Grade A Dark or Amber for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Fork
  • Skillet
  • Freezer-safe bag or container

Method
 

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your parsnips. Carefully peel the parsnips to remove the tough outer skin. Then, slice them into roughly uniform 1-inch chunks. Uniformity in size is key to ensuring they cook evenly. If any parsnips have a woody core, it's best to remove it.
    1.5 pounds parsnips
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared parsnip chunks with the olive oil. Toss them gently until each piece is lightly coated in oil. This oil coating helps them to roast and develop a nice texture rather than steam.
    1.5 pounds parsnips, 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. To the oiled parsnips, add the pure maple syrup, chopped fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme if fresh isn't available), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the maple syrup, thyme, salt, and pepper are evenly distributed amongst the parsnip pieces. The maple syrup will work its magic, caramelizing beautifully in the oven, while the thyme provides an aromatic lift that beautifully complements the earthy parsnips.
    1.5 pounds parsnips, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  4. Spread the seasoned parsnip mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. It's crucial to avoid overcrowding the pan; this allows the parsnips to roast and develop those desirable crispy edges rather than becoming soggy. If your baking sheet is too full, consider using two sheets.
    1.5 pounds parsnips, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the parsnips are tender when pierced with a fork and have lovely caramelized edges and a slightly golden-brown hue. You can gently toss or stir the parsnips about halfway through the cooking time for even browning, though it's not strictly necessary if they are spread in a single layer.
    1.5 pounds parsnips
  6. Once roasted to your desired tenderness and caramelization, remove the parsnips from the oven. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
    ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Notes

Leftover maple roasted parsnips with thyme cozy night can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, oven is recommended for best texture. They also freeze well for 2-3 months.