Simple Candied Carrots
Candied Carrots Recipe - Simple and Delicious Vegetarian Dish
Introduction
Candied carrots are a delicious and simple side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to any meal. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and tasty side dish.
History
Candied carrots have been a popular dish for many years, with variations of the recipe appearing in cookbooks dating back to the 19th century. The combination of sweet brown sugar and buttery carrots creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- nutmeg to taste
How to prepare
- In a saucepan, melt the butter.
- Add the steamed carrots.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg and brown sugar.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are glazed.
- Yield: 4 servings.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or ginger for extra flavor.
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use baby carrots for this recipe, as they cook quickly and evenly.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar and nutmeg to suit your taste preferences.
- Stir the carrots frequently while cooking to ensure they are evenly coated in the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied carrots as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork chops. They also make a great addition to a holiday meal.
Cooking Techniques
Simmering and glazing the carrots helps to bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious caramelized coating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use ghee or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute regular carrots for baby carrots, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the candied carrots ahead of time and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the candied carrots with fresh parsley or chopped nuts for a pop of color and texture.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair candied carrots with a savory main dish like grilled steak or baked salmon for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers 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
Calories: 140 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 18g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 6g per serving
Saturated Fat: 4g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 184% DV
Vitamin C: 6% DV
Alergens
Contains dairy (butter)
Summary
This dish is a good source of vitamin A and provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats.
Summary
Candied carrots are a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Simple Candied Carrots. It was a sunny day in the early spring when I found myself rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and faded clippings, a small piece of paper caught my eye. Written in faded ink was a recipe for Simple Candied Carrots.
I had always loved carrots, their vibrant orange color and sweet, earthy flavor. But I had never tried them candied before. Intrigued, I decided to give the recipe a try.
The instructions were straightforward and simple. I gathered the ingredients - carrots, butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. I peeled and sliced the carrots into thick rounds, then simmered them in a pot of water until they were tender. In a separate pan, I melted the butter and brown sugar together until it formed a rich, caramel-like sauce. I added the cooked carrots to the pan, stirring gently to coat them in the sugary glaze.
The smell that wafted through the kitchen was heavenly - sweet, caramelized carrots with a hint of buttery richness. I couldn't wait to taste them.
When I finally took my first bite, I was hooked. The carrots were tender and sweet, with a rich, buttery flavor that melted in my mouth. I couldn't believe how such a simple recipe could produce such a delicious dish.
Over the years, I made these Simple Candied Carrots many times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for a hint of spice. Other times, I would experiment with different types of sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup.
I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious the candied carrots were. They couldn't believe that something so simple could be so satisfying.
As the years passed, I continued to cook and bake, always on the lookout for new recipes to try. I collected cookbooks, scoured magazines, and traded recipes with friends. But no matter how many new dishes I discovered, the Simple Candied Carrots remained a favorite.
I often think back to that sunny day when I found the recipe in my mother's old recipe box. It was a serendipitous moment, a chance discovery that brought so much joy and flavor into my life.
And so, I am grateful for that little piece of paper with its faded ink and simple instructions. It may seem like a small thing, but to me, it represents the joy of cooking, the thrill of discovery, and the love of sharing good food with the people we care about.
So here's to Simple Candied Carrots - a humble dish that has brought me so much happiness and deliciousness over the years. May we all find our own little pieces of culinary magic, hidden away in old recipe boxes and forgotten cookbooks, waiting to be rediscovered and savored once again.