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This vibrant tandoori carrot dish transforms simple vegetables into a flavor explosion that will satisfy even the most dedicated meat-eaters. The tender-crisp roasted carrots with their aromatic spice coating sit atop a silky butter bean dip, creating a beautiful contrast of textures and temperatures that's as impressive to serve as it is delicious to eat.
I first created this when hosting a dinner party with guests who had various dietary restrictions. Rather than making separate dishes, this became the star that everyone raved about regardless of their eating preferences. Now it's my go-to impressive dish that never feels like a compromise.
Ingredients
- Ground coriander: Creates the foundation of authentic tandoori flavor
- Cumin seeds: Add texture and nutty bursts when you bite
- Garam masala: Brings warmth and complexity as a spice blend
- Salt flakes: Provide better flavor distribution than table salt
- Ground ginger: Gives a subtle heat without overwhelming
- Ground turmeric: Adds gorgeous color and earthy notes
- Garlic granules: Offer convenience without the risk of burning
- Ground cinnamon: Introduces unexpected sweetness and depth
- Chilli flakes: Let you control the heat level precisely
- Olive oil: Helps spices adhere to carrots and promotes caramelization
- Carrots: Should be fresh with tops attached for best flavor and presentation
- Butter beans: Create a creamier texture than traditional chickpeas
- Garlic: Adds punch but remains optional for sensitive palates
- Olive oil: Creates silkiness and carries flavor
- Sea salt: Enhances all other ingredients when added properly
- Tahini: Contributes essential nuttiness and authentic hummus flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Add brightness and acidity to balance the rich beans
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Mix all dressing ingredients in a container with a tight-fitting lid. The mixture should be fragrant with each spice distinguishable but harmonious. This can be done up to three days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Marinate the carrots:
- Add trimmed carrots to the spice mixture container and shake vigorously until every carrot is evenly coated. Allow to sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, though overnight in the refrigerator will intensify flavors dramatically.
- Roast to perfection:
- Arrange marinated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch to promote even browning. Roast at 180°C for 50-70 minutes, turning every 15-20 minutes. Look for slight charring on the outside while maintaining tenderness inside. Small carrots may cook faster, so check by piercing with a knife.
- Prepare the butter bean base:
- Combine drained butter beans with garlic, lemon juice, tahini and olive oil in a food processor. Process continuously for approximately 2 minutes until completely smooth. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
- Finish the dip:
- Add cherry tomatoes to the butter bean mixture and pulse briefly. You want visible flecks of tomato rather than complete incorporation. Add water a tablespoon at a time if needed to achieve desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Assemble with artistry:
- Spread the butter bean mixture on a serving platter with a swooping motion using the back of a spoon. Arrange roasted tandoori carrots attractively on top. The visual contrast between the golden-orange carrots and creamy white dip creates immediate appeal.
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The tandoori spice blend is what makes this dish truly special for me. I discovered it while traveling through northern India and was amazed at how these warm spices could transform simple vegetables into something extraordinary. My daughter initially turned her nose up at this dish until she tried it, and now she requests "the orange carrots" regularly for dinner.
Make It A Meal
This versatile dish works beautifully as an appetizer with crusty bread or as a main course alongside a grain. For a complete dinner, serve with warm naan bread and a simple cucumber salad dressed with lemon juice and mint. The cool cucumber provides refreshing contrast to the warmly spiced carrots.
Storage Tips
The assembled dish will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, though the carrots may soften slightly. For best results, store components separately. The butter bean dip actually improves after a day as flavors meld. Gently reheat carrots in a 160°C oven for 10 minutes before assembling. I do not recommend freezing this dish as the texture of both components will suffer.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, substitute young garden carrots with tops attached for a more delicate flavor and presentation. In winter, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the marinade to enhance the natural sweetness of storage carrots. During spring, garnish with fresh pea shoots instead of parsley for seasonal flair.
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This recipe elevates simple ingredients into a dish that feels truly special—it's one you'll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the tandoori carrots in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the carrots in the tandoori spice mix for up to 24 hours in advance, which will actually enhance their flavor. You can also roast them ahead of time and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes before serving.
- → What can I substitute for butter beans?
Cannellini beans, chickpeas, or navy beans make excellent substitutes for butter beans in the dip. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will work well with the tandoori carrots.
- → Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this dish is completely vegan as it uses coconut yogurt for garnish instead of dairy yogurt. All other ingredients are plant-based.
- → What's the best way to serve this dish?
Serve with warm flatbread, pita, or crusty sourdough for dipping. It works beautifully as a shared appetizer, light lunch, or as part of a mezze-style spread. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled proteins.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The dish has warming spices rather than intense heat. The chili flakes add just a touch of spice that can be adjusted to taste. Omit them completely for a mild version or add more for extra heat.
- → Can I use regular yogurt instead of coconut yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt or regular plain yogurt works well as a substitute for coconut yogurt if you're not following a vegan diet. The tanginess complements the spiced carrots beautifully.