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Candied Carrots

Candied Carrots

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Candied Carrots recipe is a quick and delicious way to add a sweet, tender, and vibrant side dish to any meal. Made with fresh carrots and a subtle natural glaze, it enhances the natural sweetness without overwhelming added sugars. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and uses simple pantry staples for a healthy and irresistible accompaniment.

Ingredients

Carrots

  • Fresh carrots, young and tender, washed and peeled, sliced into rounds or sticks

Glaze

  • Butter (plant-based), 2 tablespoons
  • Brown sugar (natural), 2 tablespoons
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon
  • Apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon
  • Natural gelling agent, 1 teaspoon mixed with 1 tablespoon water
  • Fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the fresh carrots, then slice them into evenly sized rounds or sticks to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the glaze well.
  2. Start the Glaze: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter and stir in the natural brown sugar until it begins to dissolve and bubble gently.
  3. Add Flavor Enhancers: Pour in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar to build layers of savory and tangy notes in the glaze.
  4. Cook the Carrots: Add the sliced carrots to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in the glaze. Cover the pan and let the carrots simmer until tender but still slightly firm.
  5. Thicken the Glaze: Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent mixed with water, stirring continuously to slightly thicken the mixture and give the carrots a glossy, attractive finish.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the lid and cook off excess moisture until the glaze clings neatly to the carrots. Finally, sprinkle with fresh thyme for a fragrant lift.

Notes

  • Slice carrots evenly to promote consistent cooking and texture.
  • Cook over medium heat to prevent burning the sugar while softening the carrots perfectly.
  • Use just enough natural gelling agent to create a shiny coating without making it sticky.
  • Add herbs at the end to keep their brightness vibrant and fresh.
  • Choose tender carrots without large cores to avoid tough bites.
  • Store leftover candied carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze by placing in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to restore tender texture and glaze shine.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: candied carrots, easy side dish, plant-based, natural glaze, quick recipe, healthy carrots

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/candied-carrots/