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Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

brown sugar glazed carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with a sticky, sweet, and savory brown sugar butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar (dark or light)
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or 1 teaspoon fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice 1 pound (450g) of carrots into 1/4-inch (about 0.6 cm) rounds, keeping them uniform in size.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons (28g) of butter. Let it melt completely, swirling the pan to coat the surface without browning the butter.
  3. Add the sliced carrots and 1/4 cup (60ml) water to the pan. Stir to combine, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender but still slightly firm.
  4. Remove the lid and sprinkle 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar evenly over the carrots. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently to mix.
  5. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts and thickens into a sticky glaze coating the carrots, about 4-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Optional: In the last minute of cooking, add a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle 1 teaspoon fresh orange juice and stir to combine.
  7. Remove from heat and transfer glazed carrots to a serving dish. Serve warm.

Notes

Use medium-sized carrots for best texture. Keep heat medium to medium-low to avoid burning the sugar. Stir gently and frequently once sugar is added. If glaze is too thin, increase heat slightly and stir constantly to reduce liquid. If too thick, add a splash of water to loosen. For vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Optional flavor twists include cinnamon, orange juice, cayenne pepper, fresh herbs, or balsamic vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar glazed carrots, sweet side dish, easy carrot recipe, savory carrots, quick side dish, glazed carrots