Candied Carrots

Candied carrots are a delightful side dish that transforms the humble carrot into a sweet and savory treat. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its buttery brown sugar glaze, these carrots offer a unique balance of flavors that will make your meals unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal last-minute side.
• Child-Friendly Flavors: The sweetness of the brown sugar and honey makes candied carrots appealing to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for chicken, beef, or turkey dishes, these candied carrots complement a variety of main courses.
• Colorful Presentation: Their vibrant orange hue adds a pop of color to your plate, making every meal visually appealing.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with nutrients, carrots are a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious candied carrots, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment ensures that the cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch skillet
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 10-inch skillet: The perfect size for evenly cooking the carrots while allowing space for the glaze to reduce.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of sweetness in your glaze.

Ingredients

For the Candied Carrots

• 1 pound baby carrots (past dry (454-grams))
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup salted butter
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup pure honey
• ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
• 2 teaspoons fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional garnish)

How to Make Candied Carrots

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Add the baby carrots, water, salted butter, dark brown sugar, and pure honey to a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook Covered

Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the carrots do not scorch.

Step 3: Uncover and Increase Heat

Remove the lid from the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high.

Step 4: Reduce Glaze

Continue stirring occasionally for another 8-10 minutes or until the carrots are fork tender. The brown sugar mixture should reduce and thicken during this time.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in fresh cracked black pepper if using. Garnish with chopped fresh leaf parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious candied carrots as a mouthwatering side dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Candied Carrots

Candied carrots are a delightful addition to any meal. Their sweet and savory flavor pairs well with various dishes, making them a versatile side choice. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Roast Chicken

• Enjoy candied carrots alongside juicy roast chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal. The sweetness of the carrots complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve candied carrots on a bed of fluffy quinoa for a nutritious twist. This combination adds texture and makes for a wholesome vegetarian option.

Paired with Grilled Steak

• The sweetness of candied carrots contrasts nicely with grilled steak, providing a balance of flavors that enhances the overall dish.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Incorporate candied carrots into your holiday spread as an eye-catching side dish. Their vibrant color and delicious taste make them an instant favorite among guests.

How to Perfect Candied Carrots

To ensure your candied carrots come out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture in your dish.

• Use Fresh Baby Carrots: Fresh baby carrots provide better texture and flavor than older or frozen varieties. Look for bright orange, firm carrots.

• Control the Heat: Start cooking on medium heat to melt the butter and sugar evenly, then increase to medium-high for caramelization without burning.

• Stir Occasionally: Stirring helps prevent scorching and ensures all carrots are evenly coated in the glaze, resulting in consistent sweetness throughout.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amounts of honey or brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. Tasting during cooking can help achieve the perfect balance.

Best Side Dishes for Candied Carrots

Candied carrots can shine next to many different dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with this sweet side:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and slight bitterness complement the sweetness of candied carrots, creating a balanced plate.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add richness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze of the carrots.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli brings color and crunch, making it an excellent accompaniment to the tender candied carrots.

4. Herb Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs adds depth to your meal while providing a neutral base that highlights the flavors of both dishes.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes enhance the overall sweetness while offering contrasting textures in every bite.

6. Green Bean Almondine: This classic dish with sautéed green beans and toasted almonds adds crunch and freshness alongside candied carrots.

7. Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad filled with veggies can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of candied carrots.

8. Cornbread Muffins: Lightly sweet cornbread muffins can complement the flavors wonderfully, making them a delightful pairing for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking candied carrots can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the stirring: Not stirring the carrots while cooking can lead to uneven cooking and burning. Make sure to stir occasionally for even results.
• Using too high heat: Cooking at high heat may cause the sugar to burn quickly. Stick to medium heat until the carrots are tender.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use standard measuring cups for precise quantities.
• Overcooking the carrots: Cooking them too long will make them mushy rather than tender. Check doneness with a fork regularly.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs can diminish flavor complexity. A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store candied carrots in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Candied Carrots

• Place cooled candied carrots in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Candied Carrots

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place carrots in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making candied carrots.

How do I know when my Candied Carrots are done?

You can check their tenderness by piercing them with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not mushy.

Can I use different types of carrots for Candied Carrots?

Absolutely! While baby carrots are ideal, you can also use regular carrots cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

What can I serve with Candied Carrots?

Candied carrots pair well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as part of a holiday spread. They’re versatile!

Can I customize my Candied Carrots?

Yes! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth or substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.

Are Candied Carrots healthy?

While they do contain sugar and butter, they also provide fiber and nutrients from the carrots. Enjoy them as an occasional treat!

Final Thoughts

Candied carrots offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that elevate any meal. This easy recipe is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or herbs for added flair!