Spicy Carrot Bread

Jamaican Spicy Carrot Bread Recipe with Cinnamon, Ginger, Raisins, and Nuts

Region / culture: Jamaica | Servings: 8

Introduction

Spicy Carrot Bread is a delicious and unique twist on traditional carrot cake. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day. The combination of carrots, orange zest, and warming spices like cinnamon and ginger create a delightful flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Carrot bread has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. The addition of spices and citrus in this recipe adds a modern twist to this classic dish, creating a unique and flavorful bread that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup finely shredded raw carrot
2 eggs
0.5 cup sugar
0.5 cup salad oil
1.5 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.75 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp orange rind
1 tsp grated orange rind
1 tsp grated ginger
0.25 cup raisins
0.25 cup nuts (optional)
0.13 tsp salt

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and add the sugar.
Continue beating until the mixture becomes thick.
Gradually add the oil while continuing to beat until thoroughly combined.
Stir in the flour and the remaining dry ingredients, including raisins and nuts.
Add the orange juice, rind, and ginger to the carrots, then combine with the mixture.
Stir the mixture until well blended.
Pour the batter into a well-greased loaf pan.
Bake for 1 hour or until the loaf is fully cooked.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Add a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely shred the carrots to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the bread.

- For added texture and flavor, consider adding nuts or seeds to the batter.

- To prevent the bread from sticking to the pan, be sure to grease it well before pouring in the batter.

- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Carrot Bread is delicious on its own, but can also be enjoyed with a dollop of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Spicy Carrot Bread is to finely shred the carrots and mix the batter until just combined. Be sure not to overmix, as this can result in a tough and dense loaf.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orange zest, you can use lemon zest instead for a slightly different flavor.

- Swap out the salad oil for melted butter or coconut oil for a different taste.

- Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

Spicy Carrot Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

To make Spicy Carrot Bread even more visually appealing, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving. You can also garnish with a few extra shreds of carrot or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy Carrot Bread pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. For a special treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store leftover Spicy Carrot Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast it in a toaster oven until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Carrot Bread contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie treat that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Carrot Bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Carrot Bread contains approximately 10 grams of fat. While fats are often demonized, they are an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in overall health and well-being.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Carrot Bread contains approximately 4 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an essential nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Carrot Bread is a good source of vitamin A, thanks to the carrots and orange zest. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, nuts, and gluten from the flour, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Spicy Carrot Bread is a nutritious and delicious treat that is packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, protein, and healthy fats. Enjoy a slice as part of a balanced diet for a tasty and satisfying snack or dessert.

Summary

Spicy Carrot Bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and essential nutrients, this bread is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy a slice for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Spicy Carrot Bread. It was a cool autumn day, the leaves were falling and the air was crisp. I had just finished my morning walk and decided to stop by the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh produce.

As I walked through the stalls, I noticed a little old lady selling a variety of baked goods. Her stall was overflowing with loaves of bread, muffins, and cookies. The smell wafting from her stand was irresistible, a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

I couldn't resist the temptation and made my way over to her stall. The old lady smiled warmly at me and asked if I wanted to try a sample of her Spicy Carrot Bread. I had never heard of such a thing before, but I was intrigued. I took a bite and was immediately hooked.

The bread was moist and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice that lingered on my tongue. The carrots added a subtle earthiness that balanced out the sweetness perfectly. I asked the old lady for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations.

I couldn't stop thinking about that Spicy Carrot Bread. I knew I had to figure out how to make it myself. So, I set out on a mission to recreate the recipe. I scoured my collection of cookbooks, asked friends and family if they had ever heard of such a thing, and even searched the internet for any clues.

After weeks of trial and error, I finally cracked the code. I had managed to recreate the old lady's Spicy Carrot Bread recipe, and it was just as delicious as I remembered. I was overjoyed and couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Since then, Spicy Carrot Bread has become a staple in my kitchen. I make it for every special occasion, from birthdays to holidays. It never fails to impress my guests, who always ask for the recipe. But, like the old lady at the farmer's market, I keep it a closely guarded secret.

I like to think of Spicy Carrot Bread as my own little piece of culinary magic. It represents the joy of discovery, the thrill of experimentation, and the satisfaction of creating something truly delicious. And every time I take a bite of that moist, spicy-sweet bread, I am transported back to that fateful day at the farmer's market, when I stumbled upon a recipe that would change my life forever.