These glazed carrots are a tasty side dish that’s sweet and buttery. They brighten up any meal with their vibrant color and delicious flavor!
Honestly, who knew carrots could be this good? They almost taste like candy! I love serving them with roasted chicken for a perfect dinner combo.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are tender and cook quickly, but you can use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into similar sizes. I often prefer using the baby ones for their sweetness and tenderness!
Unsalted Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor, but if you want a lighter option, you could use olive oil instead. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil works too and adds a nice tropical touch!
Brown Sugar or Honey: Brown sugar gives a deep flavor, while honey lends a floral note. For a lower sugar option, consider using maple syrup or agave. Each will change the taste slightly, but still delicious!
Water or Orange Juice: Water is basic, but orange juice brings extra sweetness and acidity. If you don’t have orange juice, consider apple cider or vegetable broth for a different flavor twist.
How Do You Get the Carrots Perfectly Glazed?
Glazing carrots to get that shiny finish is all about cooking them correctly. Start by simmering them in the butter and sugar, then let the liquid reduce.
- Cook on medium heat, so things don’t burn. Keep an eye on them!
- After covering, let them steam until just tender—8-10 minutes usually does the trick.
- Once they’re tender, remove the lid and increase the heat. This helps evaporate the liquid for that glaze!
- Stir regularly for an even coat. You want them coated but not swimming in liquid.
These simple steps make sure you end up with beautifully glazed carrots, perfect for any meal!
How to Make Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled and cut regular carrots)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
Seasoning:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 20 minutes! It takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook. Quick and easy for a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large skillet, add the baby carrots, unsalted butter, brown sugar (or honey), and water (or orange juice). Stir everything together gently to mix the ingredients.
2. Melt and Simmer:
Place the skillet over medium heat. Let the butter melt and the sugar dissolve, stirring occasionally. Once everything is combined, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Carrots:
Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the carrots to cook for about 8-10 minutes. They should be tender when you poke them with a fork, but still firm enough to hold their shape.
4. Glaze the Carrots:
Remove the lid and turn the heat to medium-high. Stir the carrots occasionally for about 3-5 minutes. This helps evaporate most of the liquid, leaving you with beautifully glazed carrots.
5. Season and Finish:
Sprinkle the cooked carrots with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re using thyme leaves, toss them in now to add a delicious herbal flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. For a lovely touch, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley just before serving. Enjoy this sweet and buttery side dish warm!
These glazed carrots are perfect with roasted meats or any hearty dish. They bring vibrant color and a bit of sweetness to your table! Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just be sure to thaw them first for even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or run them under cold water for a quicker option. Cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them!
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily substitute olive oil or coconut oil for the unsalted butter. Both will add a wonderful flavor, though the final taste may differ slightly depending on your choice.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or orange juice to loosen the glaze if necessary.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like green beans, peas, or even sweet potatoes for a colorful medley. Just adjust cooking times accordingly; for example, sweet potatoes may need longer to become tender.
