Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
Maple Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish that beautifully combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavor of maple syrup. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or an elegant holiday feast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Perfectly glazed and slightly caramelized, these carrots are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
I remember the first time I made glazed carrots for a family gathering. My grandmother, who was famous for her meticulous cooking, watched over my shoulder as I nervously stirred the glaze. As the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, she smiled and told me that this dish reminded her of her childhood. It’s amazing how food can bring generations together, creating lasting memories with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with these Maple Glazed Carrots. First, they require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick addition to a holiday menu. Additionally, the subtle sweetness from the maple syrup pairs well with savory main dishes, creating a balance that your taste buds will appreciate.
Ingredients Notes
To make this recipe, all you need are fresh carrots, pure maple syrup, butter, salt, and a hint of cinnamon for depth of flavor. Opt for organic carrots if possible, as they tend to be sweeter and more vibrant. If you’re out of maple syrup, honey can be a suitable substitute. And for a vegan twist, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by peeling and slicing the carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking. You can slice them into rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.
Step 2
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the carrots and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Step 3
Pour in the maple syrup and add a pinch of salt and cinnamon. Stir well to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the glaze.
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Step 4
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the carrots simmer for 10–15 minutes, until they are tender and the glaze has thickened.
Step 5
Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high for the last few minutes to allow the glaze to slightly caramelize, enhancing the depth of flavor.
Storage Options
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until they’re heated through. If you’d like to freeze them, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. If you’re catering to a sugar-free diet, opt for a sugar-free maple syrup. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the dish with an herby aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Glazed Carrots make a perfect pairing with roasted meats such as turkey or pork. They are also a great addition to a vegetarian feast alongside mashed potatoes and green beans. Serve them during festive occasions or as a luxe side on a regular weeknight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots? Yes, you can use baby carrots for this recipe. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time as they tend to cook faster than regular carrots. This can save you some prep time since they don’t need peeling.
What type of maple syrup is best for this recipe? Opt for pure, dark maple syrup as it offers a rich flavor that complements the carrots beautifully. Avoid using artificial maple syrup as it will not provide the same depth of flavor and may be overly sweet.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the glazed carrots a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat them on the stove over low heat before serving, adding a splash of water if the glaze has thickened too much.
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Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar packed
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the carrots and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the maple syrup and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the drained carrots to the pan, tossing to coat with the maple butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the carrots for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze becomes thick and carrots are well coated.
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
