These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the perfect side dish to complement any meal. The combination of tender carrots with a sweet, buttery glaze creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s sure to please. Enhanced with a hint of cinnamon and fresh parsley, these carrots are both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this recipe is a great addition to any plate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Carrots:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Add the sliced carrots and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until tender but still firm (not mushy).
- Drain the carrots and set them aside.
2. Make the Glaze:
- In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine the Carrots and Glaze:
- Add the cooked carrots to the saucepan with the glaze.
- Toss the carrots gently in the glaze to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.
4. Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Glazed Carrots
- Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, tender carrots provide the best texture and flavor for this dish.
- Add a Touch of Spice: If you like extra flavor, you can increase the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg.
- Make It Sweeter or Savory: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste. For a more savory option, omit the cinnamon and reduce the sugar for a lighter glaze.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Vitamin A: Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function.
- Natural Sweetness: The brown sugar glaze adds a sweet flavor, but you can control the sweetness to suit your taste preferences.
- Simple & Nutritious: This recipe is a simple way to enjoy carrots while still benefiting from their nutritional value.
A Perfect Side Dish
These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a great addition to any meal, from holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, poultry, or even a vegetarian main dish. Quick, easy, and delicious, these carrots will quickly become a family favorite.
Try this recipe today for a sweet and savory twist on your everyday carrots!
