These glazed carrots are bright, sweet, and so easy to make! With just a bit of butter and sugar, they become a tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy.
I love how crispy and colorful they look on my table. Plus, they make me feel like a cooking whiz without too much effort—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots are key to this dish. I use regular carrots cut into pieces, but baby carrots work great too! If you have a mix of colorful carrots, they can add a fun twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the salt level in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan buttery spread for that rich flavor.
Brown Sugar/Honey: Brown sugar gives a nice caramelized flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, maple syrup also works well. Honey is a perfect alternative for a more natural sweetness.
Water or Broth: Using vegetable broth instead of water can deepen the flavor. Chicken broth works too if you’re not vegetarian. Just adjust the salt level as needed.
How Can I Make Sure My Carrots Are Tender and Glazed?
Cooking the carrots correctly is crucial for a successful dish. Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly tender:
- Start by bringing your water or broth to a boil before adding the carrots. This speeds up the cooking process.
- Keep the lid on during simmering to retain moisture and cook them evenly. Just 5-7 minutes should do!
- After draining any excess liquid, low heat is key when adding butter and sugar. Stir gently to allow the glaze to coat the carrots beautifully.
Patience is important! The glaze will form as you cook them down, so give them time to get nice and shiny.
How to Make Delicious Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces or baby carrots
For the Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy side dish to make, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Carrots:
Start by peeling and cutting your carrots into 2-inch pieces. If you’re using baby carrots, you can skip the peeling and cutting. Just place them directly in the pan!
2. Boil the Carrots:
In a medium-sized skillet or saucepan, add the carrots along with 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let the carrots simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re just tender. You want them cooked, but still a little crispy!
3. Create the Glaze:
After simmering, remove the lid. If there’s too much water left, drain some, but leave a little bit to help create the glaze. Now, add the butter and brown sugar (or honey) to the pan. Stir gently to coat the carrots. As the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, it will form a shiny glaze. Cook uncovered for about 3-5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are nicely glazed and tender.
4. Season and Serve:
Season your glazed carrots with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once done, transfer them to a serving dish. If you like, garnish with fresh dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color!
5. Enjoy!
These sweet and buttery glazed carrots make a fantastic side dish for any meal. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Different Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While regular carrots work perfectly, baby carrots are a convenient option. You can also experiment with colorful varieties like purple or yellow carrots for a vibrant display!
How Do I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the glaze.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar or Honey?
No worries! You can substitute with maple syrup or even granulated sugar if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly depending on your choice of sweetener.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the carrots in advance! Simply cook them until tender, glaze, and then reheat them just before serving. Add a bit of butter or water to loosen the glaze if needed when reheating.