Introduction
Indulge in a delightful side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and savory flavors with this simple yet elegant glazed carrots recipe. Featuring tender carrot sticks enveloped in a luscious maple syrup glaze, this dish combines fresh ingredients to create a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a quick weeknight side, these glazed carrots are sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Place the carrot sticks in a large skillet and add just enough water to barely cover them (about 1 cup). Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer until carrots are tender when pierced with a fork, about 6-8 minutes. Drain the carrots.
3. Return the skillet to medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Add the carrots back to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the maple glaze.
4. Cook, stirring frequently, until the glaze reduces and thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. The carrots should look shiny and glazed.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. The vinegar balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
6. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Place the carrot sticks in a large skillet and add just enough water to barely cover them, which is approximately 1 cup. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Step 2: Cook the Carrots
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and allow the carrots to simmer. Cook until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 6-8 minutes. After cooking, drain the carrots thoroughly.
Step 3: Create the Maple Glaze
Return the drained skillet to medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is completely melted, stir in the pure maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 4: Coat the Carrots
Add the cooked carrot sticks back to the pan. Toss the carrots until they are evenly coated in the maple glaze, ensuring all pieces are covered.
Step 5: Reduce the Glaze
Continue to cook the carrots, stirring frequently, until the glaze reduces and thickens slightly. This process should take about 3-5 minutes, and the carrots will appear shiny and glazed.
Step 6: Add the Vinegar
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. This addition will help to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation. Serve the dish warm.
Notes
Note 1: Carrot Size
Ensure the carrots are cut into uniform 2-inch sticks for even cooking.
Note 2: Maple Syrup Quality
Use high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Note 3: Vinegar Alternatives
Feel free to substitute apple cider vinegar with another type of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, if preferred.
Note 4: Cooking Time Variations
Cooking times may vary based on carrot thickness and freshness, so monitor accordingly.
Note 5: Garnishing Options
Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also be used for garnishing in place of parsley.
Cook techniques
Blanching
Blanching carrots involves briefly boiling them to soften before cooking them further. This technique retains the vibrant color and helps in achieving a tender texture.
Simmering
Simmering the carrots in a covered skillet allows for even cooking. It helps to develop a tender texture while keeping the flavor intact.
Glazing
Creating a glaze involves cooking the carrots in a mixture of butter, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. The goal is to reduce the liquid until it thickens, evenly coating the carrots for a shiny finish.
Deglazing
Adding apple cider vinegar at the end deglazes the pan, helping to lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Garnishing
Finishing the dish with chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal note that complements the sweetness of the glazed carrots.
FAQ
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
While fresh carrots are recommended for better texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots if necessary. Just be aware that they may be softer.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness or do not have maple syrup on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or oil to make the dish vegan-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the carrots and the glaze in advance, but it’s best to toss them together just before serving to keep the carrots crisp and caramelized.
What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?
You can use other fresh herbs such as thyme, chives, or dill to add different flavor profiles to the dish.
Conclusion
The maple-glazed carrots bring a delightful balance of sweetness and tang, making them a perfect side dish for a variety of meals. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the fresh taste of parsley, elevates this dish, ensuring it will be a favorite on your dining table.
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