Glazed Carrots

There’s something undeniably comforting about a batch of Glazed Carrots simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with a sweet, buttery aroma. I remember the first time I made these carrots for a family gathering. Everyone was busy catching up, sharing stories, and as the rich scent of caramelized sugar and fresh orange zest wafted through the air, you could see heads turning, and mouths watering. The vibrant color and glossy finish of the carrots captivated not just my family, but also my heart. This dish always brings me back to those cozy moments spent around the table, where food carries the essence of love and togetherness. A humble side dish, yet so full of personality, Glazed Carrots have a way of making any meal feel special.

What You’ll Need for Glazed Carrots

The ingredients for Glazed Carrots are beautifully simple yet effective. Each one plays a significant role in creating that perfect glaze and enhancing the overall flavor. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the richness of the butter and the subtle acidity from the orange juice, creating a balanced dish that’s easy to love.

• 4 cups peeled and sliced carrots: Fresh and vibrant, they are the star of the show.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps form the glaze.
• 4 tablespoons light brown sugar: Sweetens the dish and enhances the caramelization.
• ½ cup water: Creates steam for cooking the carrots.
• ½ orange, juiced: Adds a zesty freshness.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth.
• 1 teaspoon minced flat-leaf parsley: For garnish and freshness.

The Method for Glazed Carrots

Cooking Glazed Carrots is a delightful experience that brings out the best in each ingredient. Follow these steps closely to create a dish that dazzles in both flavor and presentation.

1. First, take a heavy large skillet and add the carrots, butter, brown sugar, water, and the freshly squeezed orange juice. Place the skillet over medium heat. You want to watch as the butter melts and the ingredients start to combine into a lovely mixture. The carrots should be coated in a glossy sheen as the mixture heats up.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring all the carrots are submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid. This step is crucial, as it allows the carrots to steam and cook evenly, becoming tender without losing their vibrant color. Allow them to simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. After simmering, carefully remove the lid. You should see that the carrots have softened slightly while still retaining a delightful crunch. At this point, stir in the orange zest, salt, and pepper. The aroma will intensify as you mix, bringing a fresh citrus note to the dish.
4. Continue cooking uncovered for another 5 to 7 minutes. The goal here is to reduce the juices until they create a thick, glossy glaze coating the carrots. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even glaze.
5. Once the carrots are fork-tender, remove the skillet from the heat. You can taste it now—this is where you can adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
6. Finally, sprinkle the minced parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while they are warm, and watch how they disappear from the table!

Ways to Customize

One of the joys of cooking Glazed Carrots is the opportunity to personalize the recipe. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own:

• Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider tossing in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans just before serving.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes to elevate the flavors with a bit of heat.
• Sweetness Variations: Adjust the sweetness level by using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
• Herb Substitutions: Swap out the parsley for fresh mint or basil to create a different flavor profile.
• Oven Baking: To cook these in the oven, arrange carrots in a baking dish with all the other ingredients and bake at 350°F for about 30 to 40 minutes.
• Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can cook carrots in the microwave with a little water and cover it. Cook on high for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender.
• Serving Size: For a larger crowd, simply double or triple the recipe while maintaining the ingredient proportions.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Glazed Carrots, the possibilities are endless. Here are some suggestions to make the most of this delightful dish:

• Pair with Roasted Meats: These carrots complement roasted chicken, beef, or pork beautifully. Their sweetness balances savory flavors perfectly.
• Include in a Festive Meal: Serve them during holidays or special occasions alongside other sides like mashed potatoes or green beans. They add color and flavor to any festive spread.
• Perfect for Family Dinners: Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a Sunday dinner, Glazed Carrots are a hit with both kids and adults.
• Lunch Box Delight: Leftovers can make a great addition to lunch boxes, providing kids with a sweet and nutritious option.
• Garnish for Presentation: For an elegant touch, garnish with additional parsley or even toasted nuts before serving to impress your guests.
• Seasonal Flavors: Feel free to experiment with seasonal ingredients. In the fall, consider adding pumpkin spice for a cozy twist!
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

Glazed Carrots are not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Their sweet, buttery glaze combined with tender carrots creates a dish that’s loved by all ages. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s quick, easy, and sure to impress your family at the dinner table. You’ll find that, with just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful addition to any meal.

Glazed Carrots

Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor with Glazed Carrots. This easy side dish combines tender carrots with a buttery glaze, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners and festive gatherings alike, you'll love how simple yet satisfying this dish can be.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups Carrots peeled and sliced
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 4 tablespoons Brown Sugar light
• ½ cup Water
• ½ orange Orange juiced
• 1 tablespoon Orange Zest
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon Flat-Leaf Parsley minced

Instructions

 

• Bring the carrots, butter, brown sugar, water, and orange juice, to a boil in a heavy large skillet. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer until the carrots are still crisp but becoming tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
• Uncover, stir in the orange zest, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the carrots are fork-tender and the juices have reduced to a glossy glaze, about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Sprinkle with the parsley, taste for seasoning, and serve.

Notes

• Use Baby Carrots: Use 4 cups baby carrots in place of the sliced carrots if you prefer.
• Oven Cooking: To cook these carrots in the oven: Place the carrots in a baking dish. Adjust the water to just ½ cup then add the remaining ingredients up to the orange zest. Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 ½ hours. To speed things along, parboil or steam the carrots until crisp tender before putting in the oven and adjust the baking time to 40 to 60 minutes. Sprinkle with orange zest and parsley and serve.
• Microwave Instructions: To cook these carrots in the microwave: Place the carrots in a 1-½-qt. microwave-safe dish with 2 tablespoons of water and the remaining ingredients up to the parsley. Cover and microwave on high for 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp-tender. Sprinkle with orange zest and parsley and serve.

Keyword Easy Carrot Side Dish, glazed carrots recipe, Healthy Carrots Recipe, Sweet Glazed Carrots