Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Side Dish (Print Version)
Maple glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish. This easy recipe brings tender carrots coated in a rich maple glaze to your table in minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 18 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Sweet Carrot Foundation
01 -
1 pound medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds or diagonal pieces
02 -
1/4 cup water
→ Golden Maple Glaze
03 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 -
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
05 -
1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
06 -
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
07 -
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
→ Savory Seasoning & Warm Spices
08 -
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
Pinch of ground cinnamon
12 -
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle warmth)
→ Fresh Finishing Touch
13 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Begin by peeling 1 pound medium carrots and slicing them into uniform 1/2-inch thick rounds or diagonal pieces. Consistent sizing is key for even cooking, ensuring every bite of your Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Side Dish Recipe is perfect.
02 -
Place the sliced carrots in a large skillet with 1/4 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain any remaining water from the skillet.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon orange zest. Stir to combine.
04 -
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and an optional pinch of cayenne pepper into the glaze mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer.
05 -
Add the tender-crisp carrots back into the skillet with the simmering maple glaze. Toss gently to coat all the carrots thoroughly. This step brings together the flavors for your delicious Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Side Dish Recipe.
06 -
Continue to cook over medium heat for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and beautifully coats the carrots. The reduction intensifies the flavors for this Easy Maple Glazed Carrots Side Dish Recipe.
07 -
Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy this delightful and easy side dish!
# Notes:
01 -
Don't overcook the carrots in the initial steaming step; they should still have a slight bite as they will soften further while simmering in the glaze.
02 -
For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the glaze instead of cinnamon.
03 -
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.
04 -
These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork loin, or a holiday ham. They also make a fantastic addition to a vegetarian meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Vegetable peeler
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Zester
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 162 kcal
Total Fat: 5 g
Total Carbohydrate: 27 g
Protein: 1 g