Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots offer a delightful blend of sweetness and savoriness, turning a simple vegetable into a gourmet side dish. This recipe is not just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s about transforming carrots into a star performer on your dining table. It’s easy, economical, and pairs wonderfully with a wide range of proteins, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love These Glazed Carrots
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these carrots are perfect for a busy weeknight or as a part of your holiday spread.
- Nutritious and Delicious: A great way to entice picky eaters to enjoy their veggies.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just four main ingredients plus seasonings, these carrots go from ordinary to extraordinary.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Glazed Carrots
- Freshness Counts: Use the freshest carrots you can find for the best flavor. Farmer’s market or garden-fresh carrots are ideal.
- Oil for Frying: Olive oil is recommended, but you can use any neutral-flavored oil.
- Balancing Flavors: Balsamic vinegar is essential to balance the sweetness and add depth.
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these glazed carrots with dishes like shredded chicken and gravy, pork chops, or a classic Sunday roast. They add a sweet and savory element that complements a variety of main courses.
Storing and Reusing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-friendly container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
FAQs for Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
- Can I substitute the honey? Yes, agave syrup, maple syrup, or date paste are excellent alternatives to honey.
- Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
- How can I add a spicy twist to the recipe? Consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or using homemade hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots? Yes, regular carrots work just as well. Just ensure they are thinly sliced or cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
- Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Adding parsnips or sweet potatoes can create a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
In summary, Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots are not just a side dish but a celebration of flavors. They are perfect for adding a sweet and savory touch to any meal, and their simplicity makes them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making these delightful carrots and the burst of flavor they bring to your table!
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
"Try Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots – a sweet and savory side dish that's easy to make. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!"
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Large Cast Iron Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Pastry Brush
Ingredients
- 2 lbs thin baby carrots with tops trimmed
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- To taste: Salt and pepper
- ¼ teaspoon rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Wash and peel the carrots if desired. Cut off the tops.
- In a mixing bowl, drizzle the carrots with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the carrots.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a large cast iron skillet. Arrange the seasoned carrots in a single layer.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, honey, rosemary, Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Add butter to the saucepan and let it melt into the glaze. Remove from heat.
- Brush each carrot with the balsamic glaze using a pastry brush or spoon. Spoon any remaining glaze over the carrots.
- Place the baking sheet or cast iron skillet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Once roasted, transfer the carrots to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Agave Nectar: Substitute agave nectar for honey if needed.
Fresh Whole Carrots: Use fresh whole carrots for the best flavor. If unavailable, store-bought carrots or baby carrots are acceptable.
Peeling Carrots: While peeling is optional, you can skip it for added nutrition, as the peel provides more fiber. Give the carrots a good scrub and remove any blemishes.
