Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots Recipe

Introduction

These Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a delightful glaze that makes simple carrots truly shine. Easy to make and sure to impress, they bring both color and flavor to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots (washed, peeled, and cut into pieces)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into uniform pieces about 1 to 2 inches long for even cooking.
2. Step 2: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, add the carrots, and cook for 4–5 minutes until they are fork-tender but still slightly firm.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon until the sugar dissolves.
4. Step 4: Let the glaze simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
5. Step 5: Drain the cooked carrots and add them to the glaze. Toss well to coat evenly.
6. Step 6: Cook on low heat for an additional 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are glossy and fully coated.
7. Step 7: If desired, stir in apple cider vinegar for a touch of tanginess and transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh color contrast and flavor boost.

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
• Swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a different, richer sweetness.
• Use baby carrots for a quicker cooking time and a softer texture.
• For extra depth, toast the cinnamon briefly in the butter before adding sugar.
• Garnish with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Storage

Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain the glossy glaze.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil such as coconut oil. The recipe will still have that rich, sweet glaze.

What can I serve this with?

These glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal with grains and legumes. They also complement holiday dishes beautifully.

Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 91 reviews

Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots combine tender, lightly boiled carrots with a luscious glaze made from brown sugar, butter, and warm spices. This easy side dish is perfect for complementing any meal, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and subtle spice that enhances the natural flavor of the carrots.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 pound Carrots (washed, peeled, and cut into pieces)

Glaze

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (optional)

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots: Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into uniform pieces about 1 to 2 inches long to ensure even cooking.
2. Boil the Carrots: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the cut carrots and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are fork-tender but still slightly firm, then drain.
3. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon until combined.
4. Simmer the Glaze: Continue cooking the glaze and stir occasionally until it thickens to a syrupy texture, about 3-4 minutes. If using, add the apple cider vinegar now and stir to blend.
5. Combine Carrots and Glaze: Add the drained carrots to the glaze and toss gently to coat each piece evenly with the sweet and savory mixture.
6. Finish Cooking: Cook the coated carrots on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a glossy finish and are heated throughout.
7. Serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delicious and vibrant side dish.

Notes

• For added depth of flavor, the optional apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• Adjust the cinnamon amount to your taste preference; a little goes a long way in complementing the glaze.
• Ensure not to overboil the carrots; they should remain slightly firm to hold texture after glazing.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and gently reheated on stovetop before serving.
• Fresh parsley garnish adds a fresh, herby contrast and vibrant color.

Keywords: brown sugar glazed carrots, sweet and savory carrots, cinnamon glazed carrots, easy vegetable side, holiday side dish