Match thickness rather than length

Quarter very thick carrots lengthwise and halve slimmer ones. Similar thickness matters more than identical length. Leave some resistance during the initial simmer; fully soft carrots break when turned and are harder to brown. After draining, spread them on a broad plate to release steam. Use carrot tops only when fresh, thoroughly washed and suitable to eat; parsley supplies the fresh green finish in this recipe instead.

Carrots can be parboiled ahead, but they must then be cooled and refrigerated promptly. Chilled pieces need longer on the grill than freshly parboiled ones. Do not rely only on visible grill marks: cutting a thick piece checks whether the center has heated through as well.

The recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients

  • 1¾ lb / 800 g carrots
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp fine salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Method

  1. Peel carrots and halve or quarter lengthwise. Simmer gently in water for about 5–7 minutes until slightly yielding. Drain and let surface steam escape.
  2. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat, with a direct cooking area and a separate unheated zone. Clean the grate before adding food. Keep the cooler side clear so pieces can finish gently or move away from any flare-up.
  3. Mix oil with cumin, salt and pepper and brush over the carrots. Grill over medium direct heat for 8–12 minutes, turning several times. Secure small pieces in a basket.
  4. Check that the thickest sections are tender, finishing indirectly if needed. Dress with lemon juice and parsley on a platter. Serve alongside lamb or beans, or offer the carrots lukewarm as a vegetable side in their own right.

Storage

Put leftovers into shallow covered containers and refrigerate within two hours, or one hour when the temperature exceeds 90°F / 32°C. Keep at 40°F / 4°C or colder and use within three days. Store dressing separately when possible, and reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Use grilling equipment only in its intended location and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Timing is not a substitute for checking doneness.