Description
Succulent cinnamon glazed carrots bring warmth from grandmother’s kitchen to modern dining tables. Tender carrots shine with sweet spice, promising a delightful side dish to complement any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) carrots, peeled and sliced (or baby carrots)
- 2 tbsps brown sugar (or honey)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp water (if needed for steaming)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Blanching: Immerse whole carrots in vigorously boiling water, cooking for 6 minutes until achieving a tender-crisp texture. Drain and set aside on a platter.
- Glaze Preparation: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Blend brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg, stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy liquid.
- Coating and Caramelizing: Introduce blanched carrots into the aromatic glaze, rotating to ensure complete coverage. Sauté for 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the rich, sweet essence and develop a caramelized exterior.
- Flavor Enhancement: Drizzle vanilla extract into the glaze, creating a complex, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the carrots. The liquid should develop a translucent, glistening appearance.
- Finishing and Serving: Transfer glazed carrots to a serving dish, garnishing with finely chopped parsley to add a vibrant green accent. Serve immediately while warm, showcasing the harmonious blend of sweet and spiced flavors.
Notes
- Optimize Cooking Temperature: Medium heat prevents sugar from burning and ensures a smooth, even glaze without scorching the butter or caramelizing too quickly.
- Select Fresh Carrots: Choose firm, bright orange carrots with smooth skin for the best texture and sweetness, avoiding wilted or dry vegetables that might compromise the dish’s quality.
- Adjust Seasoning Flexibility: Modify spice levels by reducing nutmeg for sensitive palates or adding a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat, creating a personalized flavor profile.
- Master Glaze Consistency: Watch the sauce carefully, stirring continuously to achieve a glossy, thick coating that perfectly clings to carrots without becoming dry or runny.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg