These maple glazed carrots are sweet, tender, and oh-so-delicious! Tossed in a flavorful mix of maple syrup and butter, they make a perfect side dish for any meal.
Honestly, who can resist shiny, sweet carrots? I love serving them with chicken or ham. They’re not just tasty; they add a lovely pop of color to my plate! 🌈🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for convenience, but you can use regular carrots, just cut them into even sticks. I enjoy using rainbow carrots for their vibrant colors!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is best for a rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use honey or agave syrup, but the taste will vary. I prefer local maple syrup for that fresh taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead!
Garnish: Sesame seeds add a nice crunch, but you can swap them with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different texture.
How Do I Get the Carrots Just Right?
Getting the carrots tender and perfectly glazed is the key to this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. This helps avoid some being overdone while others remain crunchy.
- Cooking on medium heat is crucial. It allows the butter to melt without burning and helps brown the carrots slightly without cooking them too quickly.
- Stir the carrots occasionally while glazing to coat them evenly and prevent sticking.
Using these tips will give you tender, flavorful carrots that are beautifully glazed. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound baby carrots (or peeled regular carrots cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. In just a short while, you’ll have sweet and delightful maple-glazed carrots ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by rinsing the carrots thoroughly and patting them dry. If you’re using regular carrots, peel them and cut them into evenly sized sticks for uniform cooking. Baby carrots are great if you want to skip this step!
2. Sauté the Carrots:
In a large skillet, set the heat to medium and melt the butter. Once melted, add the carrots to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the carrots just begin to soften and turn lightly golden. This will enhance their flavor.
3. Add the Maple Glaze:
Now it’s time for the sweet part! Pour in the maple syrup and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring that the carrots are evenly coated in the delicious glaze.
4. Cook Until Tender:
Continue cooking the carrots in the maple glaze for another 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, and watch as the glaze thickens, giving the carrots a shiny and beautiful coat. They should be tender but not mushy.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the carrots are perfectly glazed and tender, remove them from the heat. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish, scraping any remaining glaze from the pan over them for extra flavor. If you’d like, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your sweet and silky maple-glazed carrots as a delightful side dish! They’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but make sure to thaw them first! To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or quickly run them under warm water. Keep in mind that frozen carrots may release more moisture, so you might need to cook them a little longer to get the glaze right.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make the maple glazed carrots vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, and you’ll still get that delicious sweet glaze!
Can I Make These Carrots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the carrots and glaze them up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more maple syrup if needed to refresh the glaze.
What Can I Serve with Maple Glazed Carrots?
These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork, or even as a part of a vegetarian meal with grains. They can also be a delightful addition to holiday meals or special occasions for a pop of color and sweetness on your plate!