Elevate a humble vegetable to a celebration of sweetness and flavor with Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots. This dish transforms simple carrots into a delectable side that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, making it a versatile addition to any meal. The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by a rich glaze of brown sugar, butter, and a hint of spices, resulting in a side dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or to add a touch of elegance to a weeknight meal, these glazed carrots are sure to impress with their perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.
There was a time when the thought of eating carrots did not excite me—until I discovered the magic of brown sugar glazed carrots. It was during a family holiday dinner when these glistening orange jewels first made their appearance on our table. Skeptical at first, I was quickly converted with just one bite. The carrots were tender yet crisp, coated in a sticky glaze that was the perfect blend of sweet and buttery, with just a hint of warmth from the added spices.
From that day forward, these glazed carrots became a much-anticipated dish at our gatherings. I’ve since taken the recipe and made it my own, adding a personal twist here and there. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter, a way to bring people together and share in the joy of a beautifully prepared meal. The recipe has become a cherished part of our family’s culinary tradition, passed down and shared with friends and loved ones.
Why You’ll Love Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
- Flavorful Twist on a Classic: Elevates the natural sweetness of carrots with a delicious glaze.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish a breeze to whip up.
- Versatile Side: Complements a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.
- Visually Appealing: Adds a vibrant pop of color and elegance to your meal presentation.
Ingredients Notes For Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
- Carrots: Medium-sized carrots are ideal, peeled and sliced for even cooking.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness to the glaze.
- Butter: Gives the glaze richness and helps it cling to the carrots.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and complexity to the dish.
Recipe Steps
- Prep the Carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook the Carrots: Boil or steam the carrots until they are just tender, then drain.
- Make the Glaze: In a pan, melt the butter and brown sugar together, adding a touch of water to help combine. Stir in any desired spices.
- Combine: Add the cooked carrots to the glaze, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve: Cook the glazed carrots for a few more minutes until the glaze thickens, then serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or thyme for a fresh touch.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.
How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Ingredients
- Carrots: 1 pound, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick)
- Brown sugar: 1/3 cup, packed
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Optional for extra flavor: A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg; freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Cook the Carrots:
- In a large skillet, bring about 1/2 inch of water to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and a pinch of salt. Cover and reduce heat to medium. Let the carrots simmer until they are just tender, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain the carrots and set them aside. Wipe the skillet dry.
- Make the Glaze:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. If using, add the cinnamon or nutmeg and orange juice now.
- Cook and stir the mixture until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Carrots and Glaze:
- Add the cooked carrots back to the skillet with the brown sugar glaze. Toss to coat the carrots evenly in the glaze.
- Continue to cook and stir the carrots for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the glaze is thickened slightly and the carrots are well-coated.
- Serve:
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle a little more salt or pepper on top, or garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve warm as a delicious side to your main dish.
