Sweet and Savory Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots π₯πβ¨
1. Introduction
Discover the irresistible allure of glazed carrots with our Sweet and Savory Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots recipe. This dish combines the natural sweetness of fresh carrots with a decadent maple and brown sugar glaze. Whether you’re looking for a delightful side for your weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a holiday table, these maple glazed carrots are sure to please. The cooking method allows the carrots to become tender yet lushly coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze, making them a crowd favorite.
2. Ingredients for Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
- 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For an easier prep and cooking process, consider using a Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker to slow cook these slow cooker carrots.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Peel and slice fresh carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. For a quicker and more efficient prep, use the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master to make slicing a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Carrots
Place the carrots in a large skillet or a slow cooker. If using the skillet, bring a small amount of water to a boil, add the carrots, and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. For slow cooking, add the carrots to the crockpot with 1/2 cup of water and cook on low for 4-6 hours for perfectly tender carrots, tipping into the realm of slow cooker carrots.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and maple syrup, whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble gently. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Carrots
Pour the hot glaze over the cooked carrots. Toss gently to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and adheres to the carrots. For the best results and to make your cooking process more convenient, consider using the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. They make an excellent side dish for any meal or a lovely addition to your holiday feast.
4. Storage Tips for Glazed Carrots
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or maple syrup if needed to restore the glaze’s shine. Remember, these carrots taste just as delicious when served warm or at room temperature.
5. Serving Suggestions for Maple Glazed Carrots
Pair these maple glazed carrots with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite holiday main dishes. They add a sweet contrast to savory flavors and brighten any dinner table. For variety, serve alongside a hearty healthy spinach tomato pasta or a festive holiday appetizer.
6. Creative Variations to Try
Experiment with adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for different flavor profiles. You can also use brown sugar carrots instead of maple syrup for a rich, caramelized taste. Using a Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker can help chill leftovers quickly if youβre prepping in advance.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Glazed Carrots
Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?
Yes, honey makes a good substitute and imparts a slightly different sweetness. Use the same amount as the maple syrup called for in the recipe.
Are brown sugar carrots healthy?
While brown sugar adds sweetness, these carrots can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Carrots are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
How long does it take to make glazed carrots?
Preparation and cooking typically take around 30 minutes, making it an easy and quick side dish for busy weeknights.
8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need For This Recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master β perfect for slicing and prepping carrots with ease.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set β ensures even cooking and easy cleanup while making your glaze.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker β ideal for slow cooking your carrots to a tender perfection.
Using these tools will elevate your cooking experience and make preparing these delicious glazed carrots even more enjoyable.
9. Conclusion
Incorporating glazed carrots into your meal is an easy way to add a burst of flavor and color to any table. With this sweet and savory maple brown sugar glaze, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re preparing slow cooker carrots or stovetop-friendly, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your cooking style. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and savory richness!
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Sweet and Savory Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
A simple and flavorful side dish of carrots glazed with maple syrup and brown sugar, cooked to tender perfection in a slow cooker, ideal for family dinners or holiday meals.
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place peeled and sliced carrots into the slow cooker.
- Add maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, salt, and pepper on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until carrots are tender and glazed.
- Stir gently to coat all carrots in the glaze before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can increase the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or maple syrup to taste.
- For a spiced variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg