Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of fresh carrots with the rich, caramelized flavor of honey.
This simple yet elegant dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect accompaniment for a variety of main courses.
Whether you’re serving a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a casual barbecue, honey glazed carrots are sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal. With their vibrant color and sweet, buttery glaze, these carrots will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh carrots (peeled and cut into uniform pieces, about 1-2 inches long)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional, for added flavor)
How to Make:
Prepare the Carrots:
Start by peeling the carrots. Cut them into uniform pieces, ensuring they are about 1-2 inches long. This helps them cook evenly. If you have baby carrots, you can leave them whole for a more rustic presentation.
Blanch the Carrots:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the carrot pieces and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are slightly tender but still crisp. This step enhances their color and reduces cooking time.
Drain the carrots and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain them again and set aside.
Make the Glaze:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the honey and stir to combine. If you’re using it, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth at this stage to create a more substantial glaze.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the honey caramelize slightly and intensify in flavor. If you enjoy warm spices, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon for added warmth and depth.
Glaze the Carrots:
Add the blanched carrots to the skillet, tossing them gently in the honey glaze to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are heated through and fully coated in the glossy glaze. If the glaze thickens too much, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Season and Serve:
Once the carrots are tender and glazed, season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the honey glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite main courses.
Chef’s Note:
Carrot Selection: Choose fresh, firm carrots that are bright orange in color. Baby carrots are convenient but may not have the same depth of flavor as whole carrots. If you have access to heirloom or rainbow carrots, they can add a beautiful array of colors to your dish.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness. You can also substitute maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the carrots in advance by blanching them earlier in the day and storing them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat them in the glaze until warmed through.
Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of orange juice, a sprinkle of ginger, or even a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Honey glazed carrots are a deliciously sweet and savory side dish that complements a wide range of main courses. Their vibrant color and rich flavor make them a standout addition to any meal, while their simplicity in preparation allows you to focus on the main dish. Enjoy this classic recipe that brings a touch of sweetness and elegance to your dining table!
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