Maple Glazed Carrots: Easy Sweet Side Dish Recipe (Print Version)
Maple Glazed Carrots are a simple, sweet side dish. This easy recipe features tender carrots coated in a delicious maple glaze, ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Sweet Carrot Base
01 -
1 1/2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices
→ The Maple Butter Glaze
02 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
04 -
1/4 cup water
05 -
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
06 -
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
07 -
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Aromatic & Bright Finish
08 -
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
09 -
Pinch ground nutmeg
10 -
1/2 tsp fresh orange zest
11 -
2 fresh thyme sprigs
12 -
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Peel and cut 1 1/2 lbs carrots into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices. This uniform cut ensures even cooking for your Maple Glazed Carrots: An Easy & Sweet Side Dish. Set aside for immediate use.
02 -
In a large skillet or pot, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the prepared carrots and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften slightly and develop a light color.
03 -
Pour in 1/4 cup pure maple syrup and 1/4 cup water. Stir in 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, and a pinch ground nutmeg. Add 2 fresh thyme sprigs.
04 -
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp. Uncover and continue to cook, allowing the liquid to reduce and thicken into a beautiful glaze for your Maple Glazed Carrots: An Easy & Sweet Side Dish.
05 -
Once the glaze has thickened and the carrots are perfectly tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 tsp fresh lemon juice and 1/2 tsp fresh orange zest. Discard the thyme sprigs before serving.
06 -
Transfer the Maple Glazed Carrots: An Easy & Sweet Side Dish to a serving dish. Garnish generously with 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant finish. Serve warm as a delightful side.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra caramelization, after the carrots are tender, you can increase the heat slightly and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to get a deeper golden glaze.
02 -
Leftover Maple Glazed Carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
No fresh thyme? A pinch of dried thyme (about 1/4 tsp) can be used, but add it with the other spices. If you don't have fresh orange zest, a tiny splash of orange juice can provide a similar bright note.
04 -
These sweet and savory carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork loin, or even as a vibrant addition to a holiday spread.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Vegetable peeler
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 170 kcal
Total Fat: 6 g
Total Carbohydrate: 29 g
Protein: 2 g