Every time I whip up these candied carrots, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where sweet and savory aromas danced in the air like a comforting hug. They’re the perfect balance of sugar and spice, and I swear, even the pickiest eaters can’t resist their glossy, caramelized charm. It’s like a little bit of magic on your dinner plate—sweet, crunchy magic.
Steps
- Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients for the recipe.
- Cut carrots into 2-inch pieces and place them in a pot with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a low boil, cooking until the carrots are tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain the water and return the carrots to the pot.
- Set the pot with carrots over the lowest heat setting. Add brown sugar, butter, salt, and pepper, stirring them together. Cook until the sugar becomes bubbly, taking about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Serve the candied carrots while hot.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, sliced into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 pinch of ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 600 | Total Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 492mg | Total Carbohydrate: 100g | Dietary Fiber: 12g | Total Sugars: 76g | Protein: 4g | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 208mg | Iron: 4mg | Potassium: 1544mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of sugar for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with white sugar or even honey, but keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly.
- How can I make this dish suitable for a larger crowd?
- To increase the quantity, simply double or triple the ingredients accordingly. For example, if you’re using 2 pounds of carrots, you should also double the amount of butter and brown sugar.
- Can I prepare these candied carrots ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make them in advance. Just reheat them gently on the stove before serving to ensure they remain tender and warm.
- What other spices can I add to enhance the flavor?
- You might consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer taste, or even a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, you can reduce the amount of butter used, or substitute it with a plant-based alternative to make it suitable for vegan diets.
Tips
- To maintain the perfect texture, ensure the carrots are tender but not too soft when boiling them. This will help them hold their shape when you mix in the sugar and butter.
- For added flavor, consider using a mix of brown sugar and honey or maple syrup. This can deepen the sweetness and give the carrots a slight caramelized flavor.
- When returning the carrots to the pot after boiling, keep the heat as low as possible to avoid burning the sugar and butter mixture.
- If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the salt and pepper for a warm, spiced aroma.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling the carrots.
- Colander or Strainer – To drain the carrots after boiling.
