Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) are more than just a side dish; they’re a memory on a plate. I remember my Grandma always making them for the holidays, their sweet, buttery glaze filling the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma. Now, I’m sharing my own, slightly simplified version, perfect for busy holiday schedules or any weeknight when you need a touch of comfort. These Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) are sure to become a family favorite, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
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This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it's about creating a moment, about bringing a little Grandma’s love to your table. Let's get cooking and make some memories!
Why You Will Love This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
This recipe is special because its incredibly easy and surprisingly flavorful. No one wants to spend all day in the kitchen, especially during the holidays. These glazed carrots come together quickly, freeing you up to focus on the main event or, better yet, on spending time with your loved ones. They are also a hit even with those who normally shy away from veggies!
I love how the natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the buttery glaze, making them an irresistible part of any meal. My kids gobble them up every time. Plus, I feel good knowing they are getting a healthy dose of vegetables in a delicious way! It is one of the most requested Recipes in my house!
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Ingredients Needed for This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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How to Make This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
- Place the sliced carrots and water in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp.
- Drain the carrots well, returning them to the saucepan.
- Add the butter and brown sugar to the carrots.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and coats the carrots, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet delicious dish.
How to Serve This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
These glazed carrots are incredibly versatile. They pair perfectly with a holiday ham, roast turkey, or even a simple roasted chicken. For a complete Thanksgiving meal, consider serving these alongside stuffing and mashed potatoes. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.
They are also a fantastic side dish for everyday meals. Serve alongside grilled steak, pork chops, or fish. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy element to the dish.
How to Store This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
Leftover glazed carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, allow the carrots to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat refrigerated carrots, simply microwave them for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Frozen carrots can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
For a richer flavor, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, holiday spice.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the carrots during the last few minutes of cooking.
Make sure not to overcook the carrots in the first step. They should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
Don't overcrowd the pan when you are simmering the carrots; it can hinder the cooking process.
You can also add some fresh ginger for a slight hint of zing. When cooking, keep a close eye on the carrots so the glaze doesn't burn; stir frequently. Learn more about quick and easy Recipes. Feel free to visit www.tastivate.com.
Helpful Notes for This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
The type of carrots you use can slightly affect the cooking time. Baby carrots will cook faster than larger carrots. Honey also makes for a great addition — use Tastivate, and try using it for a sweetener. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but fresh parsley will provide the best flavor.
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, granulated sugar can be used as a substitute, but the brown sugar adds a richer, caramel like flavor. If you really want to elevate the dish, use high-quality butter. It makes all the difference in the flavor of the glaze. Freshly cracked pepper always adds a little something special to the carrots compared to pre ground pepper.
Variation of This Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) Recipe
For a fun twist, roast the carrots instead of simmering them. Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Add the butter and brown sugar glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. These vegetables will complement the sweetness of the carrots and add a variety of flavors and textures to the dish. Play around with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make glazed carrots for Christmas or Thanksgiving?
Glazed carrots are made by cooking carrots until tender and then coating them in a sweet and buttery glaze made from ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and sometimes spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The glaze is typically cooked until it thickens and coats the carrots evenly.
What are the best carrots to use for glazed carrots?
While you can use any type of carrot, baby carrots or sliced regular carrots are most commonly used for glazed carrots. Baby carrots are convenient as they are already peeled and cut, while sliced regular carrots offer a more classic presentation.
Can glazed carrots be made ahead of time?
Yes, glazed carrots can be made ahead of time. Prepare them according to the recipe, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
How do you store leftover glazed carrots?
Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Adding a pat of butter while reheating can help refresh the glaze.
Conclusion
These Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) are a simple yet elegant addition to any meal, especially during the festive season. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine, creating delicious memories with every bite. Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Nothing satisfies more than some yummy Glazed Carrots (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe)!
Glazed Carrots Recipe: Easiest Christmas & Thanksgiving Side!
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A simple and sweet side dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, these Glazed Carrots are quick to make and sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition:
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 5g
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the sliced carrots and water in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp.
- Drain the carrots well, returning them to the saucepan.
- Add the butter and brown sugar to the carrots.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and coats the carrots, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, holiday spice.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the carrots during the last few minutes of cooking.