Description
Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots is a delightful side dish featuring tender carrots coated in a rich, caramelized glaze infused with warm maple syrup and brown sugar. This sweet and savory combination transforms simple carrots into an irresistibly tasty accompaniment suitable for a variety of meals. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this glaze gives the carrots a glossy finish and a perfect balance of flavors that will impress any table.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb fresh peeled carrots
Glaze
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasoning
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley or thyme
- Toasted pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into even sticks or rounds to ensure consistent cooking and an attractive presentation.
- Cook the Carrots: Place the sliced carrots in a skillet or saucepan with a splash of water and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the carrots are tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
- Make the Glaze: Drain any excess water from the pan. Add butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar directly into the hot pan. Stir continuously as the ingredients melt and thicken, creating a sticky and glossy glaze that evenly coats the carrots.
- Season and Finish: Sprinkle the carrots with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, tossing frequently to allow the carrots to soak up the glaze and develop a caramelized finish.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the pan from heat. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and toasted nuts on top. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, shiny glazed carrots.
Notes
- Choose fresh carrots for natural sweetness and better texture.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain a pleasant bite and prevent mushiness.
- Use pure maple syrup for authentic and rich flavor.
- Allow the glaze to thicken until it is sticky but still pourable for perfect coating.
- Stir gently but frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even caramelization.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg