These glazed carrots are sweet, tender, and perfect for holiday feasts like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Made with fresh carrots, butter, and a touch of sugar, they’re simple to whip up!
Honestly, these carrots steal the spotlight on my dinner table. They add a pop of color and sweetness, making veggies way more fun—who knew healthy could taste so good? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, whole carrots are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, baby carrots work too, but they might cook a bit faster. I love using colorful heirloom carrots for a festive touch!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to here, allowing you to control the salt in the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or vegan butter. Both add a nice richness.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth. If you want to cut sugar, try using honey or maple syrup instead. Just remember, honey isn’t suitable for strict vegan diets.
Water or Orange Juice: Orange juice brings a zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with carrots. If you want a lighter version, feel free to use vegetable broth instead for added taste.
How Do I Get My Carrots Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking carrots just right can be tricky, but it’s all about the timing. The goal is for them to be tender but still have a slight crunch. Here’s how:
- Start cooking on medium heat to melt the butter and coat all the carrots evenly.
- Covering the skillet helps steam the carrots, making them tender faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Remove the lid and increase the heat for the final few minutes to allow the glaze to thicken. This step enhances flavor and gives the carrots a beautiful shine.
By following these tips, you’ll get deliciously glazed carrots that are a hit at any holiday meal! Enjoy preparing this side dish, and feel free to experiment with flavors you love.
Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional), chopped
- Fresh parsley or sage leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and delightful addition to your holiday meal. In about half an hour, you’ll have a beautiful and tasty side dish ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by peeling and slicing your carrots diagonally. The diagonal cuts help them cook evenly and give them a nice appearance!
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Watch it carefully, so it doesn’t brown too much.
3. Add the Carrots:
Once the butter has melted, add the sliced carrots to the pan. Toss them around gently to coat them well with the butter.
4. Sweeten it Up:
Now, stir in the brown sugar and add the water or orange juice. Make sure the liquid barely covers the carrots for that perfect glaze.
5. Simmer Those Carrots:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, checking occasionally until the carrots are tender but still hold their shape.
6. Create the Glaze:
Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. This step helps the liquid reduce and thicken, stirring frequently, about 3-5 minutes. Your carrots should shine beautifully with the glaze!
7. Final Seasoning:
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you love thyme, sprinkle in your chopped thyme leaves and give it a stir.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the glazed carrots to a lovely serving dish. You can garnish them with fresh parsley or sage leaves to make them even more festive.
9. Enjoy the Festivity!
Serve these warm as a delightful side dish at your Christmas or Thanksgiving dinner. They’re sure to be loved by all!
Enjoy your vibrant, sweet, buttery glazed carrots that will brighten up any holiday meal!
Can I Use Baby Carrots Instead of Whole Carrots?
Absolutely! Baby carrots are a great time-saver. Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster, so be sure to check for tenderness a few minutes earlier than the recipe states.
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic that rich flavor. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can work well for a different sweet touch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Carrots Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots up to the simmering stage, then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them on the stove, add a bit of water if needed, and let the glaze thicken before serving.