If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive side dish, glazed carrots are a perfect choice. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a buttery glaze, creating a dish that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious. Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, these glazed carrots will steal the spotlight on your dinner table.
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of recipe) contains approximately 120 calories, 0.5g of fat, 28g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 2g of protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person and provides a healthy side option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into uniform pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and stir to coat them in butter.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of brown sugar and stir until it dissolves.
- Add 1/2 cup of water to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
- Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to switch things up, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness. Additionally, baby carrots can be used for a visually appealing presentation. You can also add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Serving and Pairings
These glazed carrots pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. They can also complement a hearty vegetarian dish, making them a versatile side option for various meals.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. They can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the carrots can make them mushy; aim for tender yet firm.
- Not stirring enough may cause the sugar to burn; stir frequently.
- Using too much water can dilute the flavor; use just enough to steam.
- Forgetting to season can lead to bland carrots; don’t skip the salt and pepper.
- Using old carrots can result in a less flavorful dish; choose fresh ones.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Choose carrots of similar size for even cooking.
- Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can elevate the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but they may require longer cooking times. Thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a vegan-friendly version.
What can I do if my glaze is too runny?
If your glaze is too runny, simply continue cooking it on medium-high heat until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I prepare glazed carrots in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Are glazed carrots healthy?
Glazed carrots can be a healthy option, especially when made with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. They are rich in vitamins and provide a good source of fiber.
Conclusion
Glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and impress your family and friends with this vibrant, delicious side dish!
Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into uniform pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and stir to coat them in butter.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of brown sugar and stir until it dissolves.
- Add 1/2 cup of water to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
- Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
