These sweet brown sugar glazed carrots are a wonderful side dish! With their bright color and sweet, sticky glaze, they look and taste amazing on your plate.
Honestly, they’re so tasty, you might just want to eat them all! I love serving them warm; they’re great for dinner or a family gathering. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked!
What Are the Key Ingredients and Their Substitutes?
Carrots: Baby carrots are sweet and tender, but you can use regular carrots too! Just peel and slice them for a similar effect. If you can’t find fresh carrots, frozen ones will work, but reduce cooking time.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for controlling salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with olive oil or coconut oil for a similar richness. If you prefer a dairy option, ghee is great too!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, but dark brown sugar is a great alternative if you want a deeper taste. You can also use honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity since they are sweeter.
Garlic: This adds a wonderful flavor but can be left out for a sweeter taste. If you’re a garlic fan, use fresh or garlic powder. A pinch of cinnamon could also add warmth!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme is perfect for garnish, but you can use other herbs like dill or chives based on your taste preference.
How Do I Get the Carrots Perfectly Glazed?
Achieving the perfect glaze on your carrots is crucial for flavor and appearance. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning the sugar. Stir frequently to combine it well with butter.
- Add carrots as soon as the mixture starts bubbling. Quickly coat them in the glaze.
- Covering the skillet helps steam the carrots, making them tender. Stir occasionally during this process.
- When they’re nearly done, remove the lid to let the glaze thicken. This locks in that sweet, rich flavor.
Your carrots will come out shiny and flavorful, making them a beautiful addition to any meal!
Delicious Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled and sliced regular carrots)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp water (or orange juice for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy side dish that packs a punch of flavor without demanding a lot of your time—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, place the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, which will create a lovely base for the glaze.
2. Make the Glaze:
Next, add the brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and it starts to bubble slightly. This sweet glaze will be the star of your dish!
3. Add Garlic (Optional):
If you’re using garlic, stir it in now. Let it cook for about 30 seconds, until you can smell its fragrant aroma. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
4. Toss in the Carrots:
Now it’s time to add the carrots to your skillet! Toss them gently with the butter and sugar glaze until they are evenly coated. This sweet goodness is what makes them so irresistible!
5. Steam the Carrots:
Pour in the water (or orange juice for a fun twist) and cover the skillet. Allow the carrots to steam for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be tender, but still a bit firm—nobody likes mushy carrots!
6. Thicken the Glaze:
After steaming, remove the lid and continue to cook the carrots for a few more minutes. This will help the glaze thicken up and coat the carrots beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re perfectly glazed, transfer the carrots to a serving dish. Sprinkle the fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and watch everyone enjoy this tasty side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While baby carrots are convenient, you can use regular carrots peeled and sliced into even pieces. You can also experiment with rainbow carrots for added color and flavor!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. For added depth without too much sweetness, consider using a bit of balsamic vinegar in the glaze.
What Should I Do With Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or orange juice to refresh the glaze.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. Adjust the salt to taste, and you’ll have a delicious vegan side dish that everyone can enjoy!
