“Simple One-Pan Stovetop Glazed Carrots: A Delectable Side Dish Sweetened with Brown Sugar, Orange Juice, and Butter – Perfect for Any Occasion! Plus, Discover Microwave and Oven Preparation Methods.”
When setting up a Thanksgiving spread, I always aim for a vibrant orange veggie dish. Sweet potatoes and carrots often contend for the spotlight, but I can’t choose between them, so I prepare both. Aren’t carrots just fantastic? They’re budget-friendly, consistently available, and rank among the most universally appreciated veggies. These brown sugar-glazed carrots are effortlessly prepared in a single pan, where they cook directly in the skillet, eliminating any extra boiling steps. Let’s face it, minimizing steps and dishes to clean is a major plus on Turkey Day.
These simple glazed carrots are delicately cooked to a caramelized tenderness, combining butter, orange juice, and a touch of brown sugar all in one pan. Consequently, the otherwise unassuming carrot transforms into a gleaming candied side dish that everyone will eagerly devour. Whether cooked on the stove, in the microwave, or in the oven, these brown sugar-glazed carrots cater to every cooking preference.
Ingredients for These Glazed Carrots
Elevating standard steamed buttered carrots, these caramelized carrots introduce a whole new dimension. Regardless of your chosen preparation method, the ingredients for these glazed carrots remain consistent.
Here’s what you’ll need:
– Carrots: Whole carrots, baby carrots, or even rainbow carrots work equally well. Opting for rainbow carrots not only maintains the same flavor but also adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
– Butter: Salted or unsalted varieties both yield excellent results.
– Light brown sugar (Dark brown sugar lends a more pronounced molasses flavor.)
– An orange: Utilize its juice and peel. Freshly squeezed orange juice is essential for this brown sugar carrots recipe, infusing a vibrant, fresh taste that significantly enhances the dish.
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Parsley: Minced for an appealing presentation (alternatively, consider using rosemary, thyme, or tarragon for added flavor).
Can I Substitute Brown Sugar?
Absolutely, these glazed carrots adapt well to various sweeteners. Raid your pantry and feel free to swap the brown sugar with any of the sweeteners listed below:
– Honey
– Dark brown sugar
– Agave
– Molasses
– Maple syrup
Tip: A final drizzle of any of these sweeteners just before serving will impart an extra layer of candied allure.
How to Prepare Stovetop Glazed Carrots
Cooking these stovetop glazed carrots is a time-saving technique that leaves fewer dishes in your wake. This recipe is also easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the quantities and use a larger pot or cook in batches.
Here’s the method:
Begin by boiling. In a heavy, large skillet, bring together the carrots, butter, brown sugar, water, and orange juice. Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer. Cook until the carrots are tender yet retain a slight crispness, around 8-10 minutes.
During the cooking process, the liquids combine with the sugar and butter, gradually evaporating to form a light, sweet syrupy coating over each carrot slice. If you notice the liquid evaporating too quickly before the carrots are tender, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to prevent burning.
Uncover the skillet, stir in the orange zest, and season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the carrots are fork-tender and the liquids have reduced, resulting in a glossy glaze, typically 5-7 minutes. The addition of orange zest towards the end imparts a vibrant citrus note to these carrots.
For the finishing touches, sprinkle with parsley, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve. Minced parsley adds an elegant touch, making these carrots suitable for any table setting, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or the grandeur of a Thanksgiving feast.
Lastly, a final sprinkling of brown sugar just before serving adds an extra caramelized sweetness to these glazed carrots.
Making Glazed Carrots in the Oven or Microwave
For oven preparation: Arrange the carrots in a baking dish. Adjust the water to just ⅓ cup and combine with the remaining ingredients up to the orange zest. Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 ½ hours. To expedite, partially cook the carrots by parboiling or steaming until slightly tender before placing them in the oven; then adjust the baking time to 40-60 minutes. Sprinkle with orange zest and parsley before serving.
For microwave cooking: Place the carrots in a 1-½-qt microwave-safe dish along with 2 tablespoons of water and the remaining ingredients up to the parsley. Cover and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes or until they reach a crisp-tender stage. Sprinkle with orange zest and parsley prior to serving.
Please note: Carrots prepared in the microwave won’t attain the same jammy or caramelized consistency as those cooked on the stovetop or in the oven. Nonetheless, they are still delightful.
What’s the Healthiest Cooking Method for Carrots?
Steaming carrots (or any vegetables, for that matter) stands as the healthiest cooking method, as it retains the maximum nutrients. However, these pan-cooked carrots still maintain their brightness, health benefits, and wealth of nutrients, along with exceptional flavor.
How to Quickly Soften Carrots?
If you’re pressed for time, utilize the microwave method I previously mentioned. It’s the most efficient way to soften carrots rapidly. Yet, for the best texture and flavor, I personally recommend opting for stovetop or oven cooking.
Is It Possible to Prepare Glazed Carrots a Day in Advance?
Absolutely! Carrots boast resilience, making them an ideal candidate for prepping and cooking ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat before serving.
