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Melting Carrots

Melting Carrots
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Melting Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that transforms fresh carrots into tender, buttery, and flavorful delights. This recipe balances sweetness, softness, and a touch of savory richness for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, Melting Carrots are perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into 1 to 2 inch uniform pieces
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup water or vegetable/chicken broth

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped, for garnish
  • Honey or maple syrup (as a sugar substitute)
  • Olive oil or vegan butter (for vegan version)
  • Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (for spiced variation)
  • Minced garlic and rosemary (for garlic and herb variation)
  • Fresh orange juice or lemon zest (for citrus glaze)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Carrots: Begin by peeling the carrots and cutting them into evenly sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches long. This ensures they cook evenly and melt perfectly without parts becoming mushy or underdone.
  2. Melt Butter and Sugar: In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sugar and stir to dissolve, creating a smooth, sweet buttery base that will caramelize and infuse the carrots.
  3. Cook the Carrots: Add the carrots to the pan and toss to coat them in the butter and sugar mixture. Pour in just enough water or broth to come about halfway up the carrots. Then cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the carrots gently simmer. The steam created will tenderize the carrots, while the butter-sugar mixture melts them into richness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking about 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
  5. Finish and Season: Once the carrots are tender, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to reduce any remaining liquid and glaze the carrots. Season with salt and, if using, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs for vibrant flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Slice carrots evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and achieve perfect tenderness.
  • Keep your heat medium-low to avoid burning the butter and let carrots gently soften.
  • Allow enough time for the carrots to absorb the buttery glaze and for natural sweetness to develop.
  • Use just enough water or broth to steam without boiling away all moisture prematurely.
  • Ending the cooking uncovered lets the glaze thicken and coat the carrots beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Melting Carrots, buttery carrots, tender carrots side dish, easy carrot recipe, glazed carrots, healthy side dish

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/melting-carrots/