Description
Sweet brown sugar carrots elevate simple side dishes with caramelized Southern charm. Maple-infused glaze and butter create a rich, golden coating that delights dinner guests with minimal kitchen effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) carrots, peeled and sliced (or use baby carrots)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
Seasoning Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, bringing it to a rolling boil.
- Carefully submerge whole carrots into the bubbling water, allowing them to simmer for approximately 7 minutes until they reach a perfect tender-crisp consistency.
- Drain the carrots thoroughly, creating a clean canvas for the upcoming caramelized transformation.
- Select a spacious skillet and melt butter over medium-low heat, creating a golden liquid base.
- Gently incorporate brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper into the melting butter, stirring continuously to develop a harmonious, glossy mixture.
- Introduce a splash of vanilla extract, whisking to integrate the aromatic essence throughout the developing glaze.
- Lower the heat and fold the cooked carrots into the shimmering sauce, ensuring each piece becomes lavishly coated with the sweet and spicy glaze.
- Rotate the carrots periodically, allowing them to caramelize and absorb the rich flavors for 2-3 minutes.
- When the carrots gleam with a luxurious amber sheen, remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant burst of color and herbaceous note.
- Transfer to a serving platter and present immediately while the glaze remains warm and inviting.
Notes
- Boil carrots briefly to maintain a satisfying crunch and vibrant orange color, avoiding overcooking which turns them mushy and bland.
- Select fresh, firm carrots with bright coloration for the best flavor and natural sweetness that complements the brown sugar glaze.
- Adjust sugar levels for diabetic-friendly versions by substituting brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or reducing overall sugar content.
- Enhance nutrition by adding chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra protein and creating a delightful textural contrast in the final dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 161
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg