Delicious Candied Carrots
A glossy spice-infused coating brings out each root's rich flavor.
Introduction to Candied Carrots
Candied carrots are a classic side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a deep, caramelized flavor. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of carrots, which can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes. The process of candying carrots involves baking them in a mixture of sugar and spices, resulting in a tender, sweet, and slightly glazed vegetable that complements a variety of meals.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 pounds of carrots, peeled and sliced into coins or sticks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: Additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it is hot and ready when you need it.
- Prepare the Carrots: If using carrot sticks, ensure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly. For carrot coins, slice them about 1/4 inch thick.
- Mix the Glaze: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Add Butter and Spices: Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop and add it to the sugar mixture. If using additional spices, add them now and stir well.
- Coat the Carrots: Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss them in the sugar mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Bake the Carrots: Spread the coated carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Stir and Continue Baking: After the initial baking, remove the carrots from the oven and gently stir them. Continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of browning.
**Tips and Variations**
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger works well.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze becomes too thick during baking, you can drizzle a little more water over the carrots.
- Roasting Instead: For a more rustic flavor, try roasting the carrots in the oven without the sugar glaze first. Then, brush them with the glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are candied carrots suitable for all diets?
A: While candied carrots are delicious, they contain sugar, making them less suitable for those on a low-carb or sugar-restricted diet.
Q: Can I make candied carrots in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the carrot slices and the glaze ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until baking.
Q: How do I prevent the carrots from becoming too sweet?
A: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze or use less of it if you prefer a lighter coating.
Conclusion
Candied carrots offer a delightful twist on traditional roasted or steamed carrots. With their sweet and savory flavors, they are a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9648/whiskey-glazed-carrots-major-league-yum/
- https://www.foodcity.com/index.php?vica=ctl_recipes&vicb=showRecipeDetails&vicc=p&recipeID=469290
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39372056/carrot-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a39368280/candied-carrots-recipe/
- https://www.aol.com/candied-carrots-20-minute-side-232400832.html
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