Glazed Carrots
Tasty Glazed Carrots Recipe with Orange Juice, Cinnamon, and Cayenne Pepper
Introduction
Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to any meal. The combination of butter, orange juice, and spices creates a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the carrots.
History
Glazed carrots have been a popular side dish for centuries, with variations of the recipe appearing in cookbooks dating back to the 18th century. Originally, carrots were glazed with honey or sugar, but modern versions often use orange juice for a tangy twist.
Ingredients
- 12 medium carrots (2 lb (907 g)), peeled and ends removed
- 0.5 tbsp of butter
- 0.5 tbsp of canola oil
- 2 tbsp of orange juice
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 0.25 tsp of cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp of cayenne pepper
How to prepare
- Slice the carrots into coin-like pieces.
- Heat the butter and canola oil in a skillet.
- Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients.
- Cook until the carrots are tender and the liquid is absorbed, approximately 15 minutes.
Variations
- Try this recipe with other vegetables, such as squash or cabbage. Use 2 lb (907 g) or 4 cups of chopped squash or chopped cabbage.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the orange juice for a sweeter glaze.
Notes
- Cut carrots into pieces of the same size to cook more evenly.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to slice the carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Be careful not to overcook the carrots, as they can become mushy.
- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve glazed carrots alongside roasted chicken or pork for a delicious and colorful meal.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the carrots in butter and oil helps to caramelize them and bring out their natural sweetness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use olive oil instead of canola oil for a different flavor profile.
- Swap out the cinnamon and cayenne pepper for nutmeg or ginger for a different spice blend.
Make Ahead Tips
Glazed carrots can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the glazed carrots on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of orange zest for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Glazed carrots pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled fish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
This recipe contains approximately 100 calories per serving.
Carbohydrates
Carrots are a good source of carbohydrates, with approximately 12 grams per serving.
Fats
This recipe contains approximately 2 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the butter and canola oil.
Proteins
Carrots are not a significant source of protein, with only about 1 gram per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake per serving. They also contain vitamin K, potassium, and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
Glazed carrots are a nutritious side dish that provides a good source of vitamin A and fiber, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats.
Summary
Glazed carrots are a simple and delicious side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. With a sweet and tangy glaze, these carrots are sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, known throughout the town for her delicious dishes. I would spend hours in her kitchen, watching her chop, stir, and sauté with ease.
One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she handed me a worn, stained recipe card. "Here, my dear," she said, "this is a recipe for glazed carrots. It's a family favorite, passed down from generation to generation. I think you'll enjoy making it."
I studied the recipe card carefully, taking in every detail. The ingredients were simple enough - carrots, butter, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. But it was the method that intrigued me. The carrots were to be cooked in a mixture of butter and brown sugar until they were tender and caramelized, creating a sweet and savory glaze that coated each carrot perfectly.
I followed the recipe to the letter, chopping the carrots into uniform pieces and melting the butter in a skillet. As the brown sugar melted into the butter, filling the kitchen with a rich, sweet aroma, I knew I was onto something special. I added the carrots to the skillet, stirring them gently as they cooked, until they were tender and glazed to perfection.
When I served the glazed carrots that evening, alongside a roast chicken and mashed potatoes, my family's eyes lit up with delight. The carrots were a hit, with their sweet, caramelized glaze complementing the savory main course perfectly. From that moment on, glazed carrots became a staple in our family's meals, a dish that always brought back fond memories of my grandmother and her love of cooking.
Over the years, I have continued to make glazed carrots for my own family, adapting the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, or a splash of citrus juice for a tangy twist. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the basic elements remain the same - carrots, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon - creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of glazed carrots to a new generation of cooks. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of my grandmother and the joy she brought to our family through her cooking. I can still picture her in her kitchen, a smile on her face as she stirred a pot on the stove, her hands moving with practiced ease.
As I grow older, I find comfort in the memories of those days spent in my grandmother's kitchen, learning the art of cooking from a master. The recipe for glazed carrots will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and warmth that can be found in a simple, home-cooked meal. And as I continue to cook for my own family, I hope to pass on that same love and warmth through each dish I prepare.