Name: Skillet-Roasted Carrots with Za'atar Bread Crumbs and Cilantro
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs; 1 tablespoon za'atar; 2 teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil , divided; 1/8 teaspoon plus ½ teaspoon table salt , divided; 1/2 cup water; 1 1/2 pounds large carrots , peeled, cut crosswise into 3- to 4-inch lengths, and cut lengthwise into even pieces; 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro

Why This Recipe Works

For roasted carrots in a third of the time, we moved the process to a covered skillet on the stovetop, where we steamed the carrots for about 8 minutes before searing them. Steaming softened the carrots, which was important for two reasons: It released the carrots' sugars, encouraging browning, and made the carrots more flexible so that they could be pressed flush against the skillet for optimal color. Once the lid was removed, the carrots needed only 5 to 7 minutes to develop oven-worthy roasty browning. The za'atar added tart, herby flavor to these crispy crumbs, which made them a great partner for naturally sweet carrots. Cilantro contributed freshness and color.

Before You Begin

We prefer large carrots from the bulk bin for this recipe. After cutting the carrots crosswise, quarter lengthwise any pieces that are larger than 1½ inches in diameter and halve lengthwise any pieces that are ¾ to 1½ inches in diameter. Leave whole any carrots that are narrower than ¾ inch.

Instructions

Combine panko, za'atar, 2 teaspoons oil, and ⅛ teaspoon salt in 12-inch nonstick skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until panko is fragrant and crisp. Transfer to small bowl and let cool completely, about 10 minutes. Wipe skillet clean with paper towels.

Mix water and remaining ½ teaspoon salt in now-empty skillet until salt is dissolved. Place carrots in skillet, arranging as many carrots flat side down as possible (carrots will not fit in single layer). Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons oil over carrots. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Cover and cook, without moving carrots, until carrots are crisp-tender and water has almost evaporated, 8 to 10 minutes.

Uncover and gently shake skillet until carrots settle into even layer. Continue to cook, not moving carrots but occasionally pressing them gently against skillet with spatula, until undersides of carrots are deeply browned, 3 to 5 minutes longer. Stir carrots and flip pale side down. Cook until second side is lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer to serving dish. Stir cilantro into panko mixture. Sprinkle carrots with panko mixture and serve.