Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your meal. This recipe showcases the natural flavors of fresh carrots, enhanced by a buttery glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, these glazed carrots are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a must-try for any home cook.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 110
– Protein: 1g
– Carbohydrates: 16g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 8g
– Fat: 5g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Wash and peel the baby carrots if necessary. 2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. 3. Add the brown sugar and honey to the melted butter. 4. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is bubbling. 5. Add the carrots to the skillet and stir to coat. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Cover the skillet and let the carrots cook for about 10 minutes. 8. Uncover and stir occasionally until the carrots are tender and glazed, about 5 more minutes. 9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. 10. Serve warm and enjoy! 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute baby carrots with regular carrots, sliced into similar sizes. For a different flavor, try using maple syrup instead of honey or experimenting with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aroma.
Serving and Pairings
Glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, and complement grain dishes like rice or quinoa. They also make a vibrant addition to holiday spreads alongside mashed potatoes and green beans.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, they can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the carrots can make them mushy; aim for tender but still crisp.
- Not stirring enough may cause uneven cooking and caramelization.
- Using too much sugar can overpower the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Skipping the seasoning may lead to bland flavors.
- Using old carrots can affect the taste; always choose fresh, vibrant ones.
Helpful Tips
- For extra richness, add a splash of orange juice to the glaze.
- Use a mix of carrot colors for a stunning presentation.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the glaze.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough to caramelize the sugar.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
While fresh carrots yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots. Just note that they may become softer when cooked.
How do I know when the carrots are done?
The carrots are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, yet still have a slight crunch.
Can I make glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and carrots ahead of time. Just reheat them before serving for the best results.
What other vegetables can I glaze?
In addition to carrots, vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts can also be delicious when glazed.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this glazed carrots recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or animal products other than butter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, glazed carrots are a delightful way to enhance any meal. Their sweet and buttery flavor profile, combined with their vibrant color, makes them a visually appealing and tasty side dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and peel the baby carrots if necessary.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and honey to the melted butter and stir until dissolved.
- Add the carrots to the skillet and stir to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the skillet and cook the carrots for about 10 minutes.
- Uncover and stir occasionally until the carrots are tender and glazed, about 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
