Description
There are certain recipes that take me back to simpler times, and these Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Roasted Carrots are definitely one of them. I can vividly recall the cozy evenings spent at my grandmother's kitchen table, where she would serve these vibrant, caramelized beauties alongside her famous roast chicken. The way the brown sugar clung to the tender carrots created a sweet, sticky glaze that had everyone reaching for seconds—myself included!
Fast forward to today, and I find myself craving those same flavors, especially on busy weeknights when comfort food feels like a warm embrace. This recipe is a delightful nod to that cherished memory, transforming ordinary carrots into a show-stopping side dish that’s incredibly simple to whip up. With just a few ingredients, you’ll achieve those gorgeous caramelized edges and a rich, luscious sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or as a delightful accompaniment to any main dish, these glazed carrots will quickly become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients
- 4 cups carrots, cut into 4cm/1.75" lengths
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C/425°F (or 200°C/400°F for a fan oven). A hot oven is crucial for achieving those perfect caramelized edges!
- Cut Carrots: Slice your carrots diagonally into 4cm/1.75" lengths. Halve any thicker ends to ensure an even cooking experience—consistency is key to great texture.
- Toss Ingredients: In a bowl, toss the carrots with brown sugar, melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure every carrot piece is coated for maximum flavor!
- Roast Part 1: Spread the carrot mixture evenly on a baking tray. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes, allowing them to start caramelizing beautifully.
- Roast Part 2: Carefully toss the carrots and roast for an additional 10 minutes. You're looking for them to become soft and golden with a lovely glaze left in the tray.
- Serve: Once done, toss the carrots in that glorious residual glaze and sprinkle with parsley if desired. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Notes
- Oven Temperature: Use a high temperature (220°C/425°F) to achieve those caramelized edges without overcooking the carrots.
- Even Cuts: Cut the carrots uniformly into 4cm/1.75" lengths to ensure even roasting and a consistent texture throughout.
- Coating Technique: Toss the carrots thoroughly with the glaze to ensure each piece is evenly coated, enhancing flavor and maximizing caramelization.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the carrots; when they’re tender-crisp, it’s time to take them out to prevent mushiness.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with optional ingredients like cinnamon or cayenne pepper to add a personal touch to your glazed carrots.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg