These maple glazed carrots are a sweet and colorful side dish that everyone will love! They get a delicious glaze from maple syrup, making them both tasty and fun to eat.
Honestly, who knew carrots could taste this good? I often make them as a treat during dinner and sneak extra bites when no one is looking. 😄 Serve them warm, and they will brighten up any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are perfect for this dish as they’re sweet and tender. If you can’t find them, use whole carrots, just make sure to cut them into equal pieces for even cooking.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for that lovely flavor. If you need a substitute, honey or agave syrup can work, though they will alter the taste slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, swap it out for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a nice herbal touch. Dried thyme can be used in a pinch, or you could skip it altogether for simplicity. Another option is parsley for a milder flavor.
How Can You Get the Carrots Perfectly Tender and Glazed?
Getting those carrots tender and covered in a tasty glaze takes a little technique. Start by sautéing in butter just to soften them, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, adding maple syrup and other spices helps them become sweet and flavorful.
- Use medium heat to melt the butter, preventing it from burning.
- Cover the skillet while cooking on low to trap steam, which softens the carrots.
- Stir occasionally for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Uncover to reduce the liquid and create a thicker glaze towards the end.
With these tips, your carrots will come out perfectly glazed every time!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled whole carrots)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping the carrots and melting the butter, and then about 15 minutes cooking time to make them tender and glazed. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
First, rinse the baby carrots under cold water. If you’re using larger carrots, make sure to peel them and cut them into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, place over medium heat, add the butter, and wait until it melts completely. This should only take a minute or two!
3. Sauté the Carrots:
Add the carrots to the melted butter in the skillet. Sauté them for about 5 minutes. This step helps to start softening the carrots and gives them a nice flavor.
4. Add Maple Syrup and Seasoning:
Once the carrots are slightly tender, stir in the maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and thyme leaves if you’re using them. Mix well to make sure all the carrots are coated.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Now, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the carrots cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should become soft and glossy with the maple glaze.
6. Thicken the Glaze:
After the carrots are tender, remove the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps thicken the glaze. Remember to stir frequently to coat the carrots nicely.
7. Add a Kick (Optional):
If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the carrots just before serving.
8. Serve Warm:
Lastly, serve the maple glazed carrots warm as a delightful sweet and savory side dish. Enjoy every bite of their natural sweetness!
These glazed carrots are not only delicious but also add a vibrant splash of color to your table. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While baby carrots are perfect for this recipe, you can also use whole carrots. Just make sure to peel and cut them into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly, but they will still be tasty!
How Do I Store Leftover Maple Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet on low heat, adding a little butter or water to refresh the glaze.
Can I Make These Carrots Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead! Cook the carrots until they’re tender, then let them cool and store them in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to avoid overcooking.
