Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and savory flavors. This recipe is not only simple but also transforms humble carrots into a vibrant, flavorful addition to your meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these glazed carrots will impress your family and guests alike. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving of glazed carrots (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 120
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 9g
– Protein: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by washing and peeling the carrots. Cut them into evenly sized sticks for uniform cooking.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Sprinkle the brown sugar, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon over the carrots.
5. Pour in the water and stir to combine all ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Cover the skillet and let the carrots simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Remove the lid and continue to cook for another 5 minutes to allow the glaze to thicken.
9. Once the carrots are tender and glazed, remove from heat.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. You can also use a mix of different colored carrots for a more visually appealing dish. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey.
Serving and Pairings
Glazed carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats such as chicken or beef. They also complement grain dishes like quinoa or rice, adding a sweet contrast that enhances any meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. Glazed carrots can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the carrots can result in mushy texture; aim for tender-crisp.
- Don’t skip the water; it helps create the glaze.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste; you can always add more sugar or honey.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
- Make sure to cut carrots evenly for uniform cooking.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg.
- Use fresh, young carrots for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs for garnish, like thyme or dill.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
While fresh carrots yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots. Just be aware they may not retain their crunch as well when cooked.
How do I know when the carrots are done?
The carrots should be tender but still firm. You can test them by piercing with a fork; they should slide in easily without falling apart.
Can I make glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare glazed carrots in advance. Simply reheat them on the stovetop before serving for optimal taste.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar and add a splash of molasses for a similar flavor.
Are glazed carrots healthy?
Glazed carrots can be a healthy side dish when made with moderate amounts of sugar and butter. They are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious choice.
Conclusion
This glazed carrots recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enhance your meals. With its balance of sweetness and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy these vibrant carrots as a delightful side dish any time of the year!
Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into evenly sized sticks.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle brown sugar, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon over the carrots.
- Pour in the water and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let the carrots simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue to cook for another 5 minutes to thicken the glaze.
- Once tender and glazed, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
