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Spice-Crusted Carrots with Harissa Yogurt

4.8

(6)

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Photo by Peden + Munk

The sugar in the spice rub can burn if cooked too long, so watch these closely.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

2 pounds small carrots, scrubbed, tops trimmed to 1/2"
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon English mustard powder
1 teaspoon hot smoked Spanish paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander or fennel
4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon harissa paste
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus more
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest, plus more
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook carrots in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender and skins easily rub off, about 5 minutes; drain. Transfer to a bowl of ice water. Using paper towels, gently rub carrots to remove skins and pat dry.

    Step 2

    Mix sugar, mustard powder, paprika, cumin, and coriander in a small bowl. Toss carrots with 1 tablespoon oil in a medium bowl. Add spice mixture; season with salt and pepper and toss to coat.

    Step 3

    Heat remaining 3 tablespoons oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron. Working in 2 batches, cook carrots, turning occasionally, until deep brown all over, 6–8 minutes; season with salt and pepper.

    Step 4

    Meanwhile, place yogurt in a small bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add harissa paste, 2 teaspoons thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest and gently swirl ingredients, stopping before yogurt turns pink.

    Step 5

    Spoon harissa yogurt onto plates and top with carrots, more thyme, and more lemon zest. Serve with lemon wedges.

    Step 6

    DO AHEAD: Carrots can be cooked in boiling water and peeled 6 hours ahead. Cover and chill.

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