Glazed Carrots with Mustard

German Glazed Carrots with Mustard Recipe

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Glazed carrots with mustard is a delicious and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy mustard, and fresh herbs creates a unique and tasty dish that will impress your family and friends.

History

Glazed carrots with mustard is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. The sweet and savory flavors of this dish have made it a popular choice for holiday dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) baby carrots
boiling water
0.25 cup butter
0.5 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
0.25 cup hearty mustard, such as German mustard
2 tbsp chopped chives
2 tbsp chopped parsley

How to prepare

Wash the carrots; if any are especially large, cut them in half lengthwise.
Place the carrots in a saucepan.
Add enough boiling water to cover the carrots (or use a steamer) and simmer for 20 – 30 minutes until the carrots are tender, but not mushy.
Drain the carrots.
In a small saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and mustard.
Cook, stirring, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Continue to cook for three minutes.
Pour the mixture over the drained carrots in their pan, tossing to combine.
Heat for several minutes, then add the chopped herbs, mix well, and transfer to a serving dish.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute honey for the brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the carrots until they are tender but still have a slight crunch to them.

- Adjust the amount of mustard and brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- Fresh herbs like chives and parsley add a burst of flavor to the dish, so be sure to include them in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve glazed carrots with mustard alongside roasted chicken or pork for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the carrots helps to retain their nutrients and natural flavors.

- Tossing the carrots in the glaze while still warm ensures that they are evenly coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out the chives and parsley for cilantro or dill for a fresh twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the glazed carrots with mustard ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the glazed carrots with mustard with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair glazed carrots with mustard with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 180 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 310% DV

Vitamin C: 15% DV

Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter)

Summary

Glazed carrots with mustard is a nutritious side dish that is high in vitamin A and low in calories. It is a great way to add some vegetables to your meal while still enjoying a delicious and flavorful dish.

Summary

Glazed carrots with mustard is a simple yet delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy flavors of the dish pair perfectly with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile and tasty addition to your meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. The combination of sweet glazed carrots with tangy mustard sounded like the perfect balance of flavors. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across the recipe for Glazed Carrots with Mustard at a potluck dinner hosted by my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She had prepared a delicious spread of dishes, but the Glazed Carrots with Mustard stood out to me the most. The vibrant orange color of the carrots paired with the rich, tangy mustard glaze was simply irresistible.

I approached Mrs. Jenkins and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and handed me a handwritten card with the instructions. I thanked her profusely and promised to make it for my family soon.

When I got home, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe. I gathered all the ingredients I needed - fresh carrots, butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. I carefully followed Mrs. Jenkins' instructions, peeling and cutting the carrots into uniform slices before sautéing them in butter until they were tender.

As the carrots cooked, I prepared the glaze by combining the brown sugar, mustard, and salt in a small bowl. I poured the glaze over the cooked carrots and let it simmer until it thickened and coated the carrots evenly. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly - a tantalizing mix of sweetness and tanginess that made my mouth water.

When I served the Glazed Carrots with Mustard to my family that evening, they couldn't get enough of it. The carrots were perfectly cooked, tender yet still with a slight crunch, and the mustard glaze added a depth of flavor that was simply exquisite. My husband and children raved about the dish, and I knew I had found a new family favorite.

From that day on, Glazed Carrots with Mustard became a regular dish on our dinner table. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and even just as a side dish for our weeknight meals. Each time I made it, I remembered Mrs. Jenkins and the kindness she had shown me by sharing her recipe.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my recipe for Glazed Carrots with Mustard. I experimented with different types of mustard - whole grain, spicy, honey - and adjusted the proportions of sugar and salt to suit our tastes. Sometimes I added a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.

I also shared the recipe with friends and neighbors who marveled at the unique combination of flavors. They too fell in love with the dish and often asked me for tips on how to make it just right. I was always happy to pass on Mrs. Jenkins' recipe and share the joy of cooking with others.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened. I continued to explore new recipes, learn from different chefs, and experiment with ingredients in my kitchen. But no matter how many dishes I tried, Glazed Carrots with Mustard remained a special recipe for me - a reminder of the moment I first discovered its magic at Mrs. Jenkins' potluck dinner.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about the countless meals I have cooked over the years, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. And as I pass on my recipes to the next generation, I hope that they too will find joy in the art of cooking, just as I have.