These glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving. With a sweet glaze that makes them shine, they are hard to resist!
Honestly, who can say no to these yummy and colorful veggies? I love serving them warm, and they always add a pop of cheer to my holiday meals. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for their convenience and sweetness. If you use large carrots, just be sure to cut them into even pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, so you can control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free version, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, but dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, honey or maple syrup also works well.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be used, but add them sparingly since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Glaze for Carrots?
The secret to a good glaze lies in timing and technique. Start by cooking the carrots until they are just tender, as this will ensure they absorb the glaze well.
- Boil the carrots first to soften them.
- Combine butter, brown sugar, and other flavors over medium heat until melted. This creates a delicious sauce that clings to the carrots.
- Stir frequently to coat the carrots evenly. Watch the glaze closely so it doesn’t burn; let it thicken gradually for that perfect shine!
By following these steps, you’ll end up with glazed carrots that are not only tasty but also visually appealing for your holiday table! Enjoy this festive dish with your loved ones!
Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe)
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds baby carrots or peeled large carrots cut into sticks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 15 minutes of cooking time for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick enough to whip up even on busy holiday cooking days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by preparing your carrots. If you’re using large carrots, make sure to peel them and cut them into even sticks, similarly sized to baby carrots. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Cook the Carrots:
In a large skillet or pan, add the carrots and pour in just enough water to cover them halfway. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer gently until the carrots are just tender, which should take about 7-10 minutes.
3. Drain the Carrots:
Once the carrots are cooked, carefully drain the water from the skillet. Return the tender carrots to the pan, ready for the delicious glaze!
4. Make the Glaze:
Add the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and honey or maple syrup (if you’re using it) to the pan with the carrots. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Stir everything together to combine well.
5. Glaze the Carrots:
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. You’ll want to cook until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved, allowing the glaze to coat all of the carrots evenly. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, letting the glaze thicken a little until the carrots look glossy and delicious!
6. Serve:**
Transfer the glazed carrots to a beautiful serving dish. For that festive touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped thyme or parsley over the top. It makes the dish as pretty as it is tasty!
7. Enjoy Warm:
These glazed carrots are best enjoyed warm and make for a delightful and colorful side dish at both your Christmas and Thanksgiving meals. Everyone will love their sweet, buttery flavor!
This recipe results in tender, sweet, and buttery carrots with a glossy finish and herby accents, perfect for holiday celebrations. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just make sure to thaw them first for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen carrots can cook quicker than fresh ones. Steam or microwave them briefly before glazing if you prefer.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Glaze?
If you’d like to boost the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy touch. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add warmth, making the dish even more festive!
Can I Prepare the Carrots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the carrots and make the glaze in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them together in a pan until warmed through and glossy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed to keep them moist.