Looking for a simple yet delicious side dish? Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are an excellent choice. The natural sweetness of carrots paired with a buttery brown sugar glaze makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or even special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- Carrots: 1 pound, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick)
- Brown sugar: 1/3 cup, packed
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Optional for extra flavor: A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice for a citrusy twist
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
- Peel and slice: Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the carrots: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the sliced carrots for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender. Drain the carrots and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar: Stir in the brown sugar and let it melt into the butter, creating a smooth glaze. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Season: Add the salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. If you’re adding any extra flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange juice, this is the time to incorporate them. Stir to combine everything.
Step 3: Glaze the Carrots
- Toss the carrots in the glaze: Add the cooked carrots to the skillet with the brown sugar glaze. Toss the carrots gently until they are fully coated in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly and adhere to the carrots.
- Taste and adjust: Give the glazed carrots a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 4: Serve
Serve these Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots warm, as a sweet and savory side dish to accompany your main meal. They’re great alongside roast chicken, turkey, pork, or even as part of a vegetarian spread.
Cooking Notes
- Carrot variations: You can use baby carrots for this recipe if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure they become tender.
- Make it extra fancy: Garnish the carrots with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add orange zest: For a bit more citrus flavor, consider adding some grated orange zest along with the freshly squeezed orange juice.
Variations
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Swap the brown sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness. The honey adds a floral note that pairs beautifully with the carrots.
- Maple-Glazed Carrots: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a richer, more complex sweetness.
- Spiced Carrots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick of heat to balance the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the glazed carrots ahead of time and reheat them just before serving. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I use baby carrots?
Absolutely! Baby carrots work well for this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may need a few extra minutes of cooking time to become tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety and flavor. Be sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.
These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The buttery brown sugar glaze with optional spices and citrusy notes elevates simple carrots into a dish that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious, nutritious side in just minutes!
