Savory Maple-Balsamic Glazed Parsnips
Transform your holiday side dish with these exquisite Savory Maple-Balsamic Glazed Parsnips. Honoring a cherished recipe gifted by a dear friend, this dish melds the earthy sweetness of caramelized parsnips with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar and the luscious richness of maple syrup. Perfectly roasted to golden perfection, these parsnips add a delightful touch to any festive dinner table, making them a standout accompaniment for roasts or a tasty vegetarian option. Bring warmth and flavor to your celebrations with this beloved family recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Parsnips
2 lbs (washed, peeled, and chopped into evenly sized pieces)
Oil
1 tablespoon (preferably olive or your choice)
Kosher Salt
1 tablespoon (for seasoning)
Balsamic Vinegar
3 tablespoons (to add tanginess)
Maple Syrup
1 1/2 tablespoons (for sweetness)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2
Thoroughly wash and peel the parsnips before chopping them into uniform pieces, roughly 1 to 2 inches in size for even cooking.
3
In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped parsnips with oil and kosher salt until well coated.
4
Spread the seasoned parsnips evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5
Roast in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 8-10 minutes to ensure even cooking, until the parsnips are tender and golden brown.
6
Once the parsnips are cooked through, remove them from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup.
7
Toss gently to combine, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
8
Taste and adjust seasoning with freshly ground pepper, if desired, before serving warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Maple-Balsamic Glazed Parsnips?
This is a roasted vegetable side dish featuring parsnips caramelized with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup for a balance of earthy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses oil and maple syrup instead of animal-based fats or honey.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including parsnips, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup, are gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How should I prepare the parsnips before roasting?
You should thoroughly wash, peel, and chop the parsnips into uniform pieces roughly 1 to 2 inches in size.
What type of oil is recommended for this recipe?
One tablespoon of olive oil is preferred, though you can use your choice of cooking oil.
How long do the parsnips need to roast?
The initial roasting time is 30-45 minutes, followed by an additional 5 minutes once the glaze is added.
How often should I stir the parsnips while they are in the oven?
Stir the parsnips every 8-10 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning.
When do I add the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar?
Add the glaze after the parsnips are tender and golden brown, then return them to the oven for a final caramelization.
Can I substitute the maple syrup?
While maple syrup provides a specific richness, you could potentially use honey or agave nectar, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
What kind of salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of kosher salt.
Can I add black pepper to this dish?
Yes, it is recommended to taste and adjust the seasoning with freshly ground pepper before serving.
Is this a good dish for Christmas or holidays?
Absolutely, it is described as an exquisite holiday side dish that adds a festive touch to any dinner table.
What is the purpose of the balsamic vinegar?
The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth that cuts through the sweetness of the parsnips and maple syrup.
How do I ensure the parsnips cook evenly?
Chopping them into uniform 1 to 2 inch pieces and spreading them in a single layer on the baking sheet ensures even roasting.
Does this recipe contain any cholesterol?
Since it uses plant-based ingredients like parsnips, oil, and maple syrup, it is naturally cholesterol-free.
Can I use this recipe for a vegetarian main course?
While usually served as a side, these parsnips are a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option.
What is the texture of the finished parsnips?
The parsnips should be tender on the inside and golden brown with a sticky, caramelized glaze on the outside.
Can I prepare the parsnips in advance?
You can wash, peel, and chop the parsnips ahead of time to save prep time on the day of cooking.
How much maple syrup is required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 tablespoons of maple syrup.
How much balsamic vinegar is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar.
Is it necessary to peel the parsnips?
Yes, peeling the parsnips is recommended to ensure a smooth texture and remove any tough outer skin.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
What main dishes pair well with these parsnips?
They are a standout accompaniment for various roasts or festive holiday meats.
What if my parsnips are taking longer than 45 minutes to soften?
Cooking times can vary based on the oven and the size of the pieces; continue roasting until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I use a different type of salt?
You can use sea salt or table salt, but you may need to adjust the quantity as kosher salt has larger flakes.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe using whole vegetables and minimal added fats.
Should the glaze be mixed before adding it?
You can drizzle them separately over the parsnips and then toss them together to ensure even coating.
Is this a family-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is described as a beloved family recipe that guests often ask for seconds of.