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Maple Glazed Carrots

Maple glazed carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by a smoky maple syrup glaze. The carrots are sliced and cooked until tender, then caramelized in a skillet to develop a glossy, sticky coating. This dish offers a tender bite with a beautifully glazed appearance, perfect for adding warmth to any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large carrots peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds or sticks
  • 1 tablespoon butter unsalted preferred
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup rich and smoky
  • pinch salt to taste
  • freshly cracked black pepper for finishing
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice a splash to brighten the glaze

Equipment

  • Chef's knife
  • Large Skillet or Saute Pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Heat-Resistant Spatula
  • Kitchen tongs

Method
 

  1. Gather your tools: a sharp chef's knife, a large skillet, measuring spoons, and a spatula. Preheat the skillet over medium heat until warm.
  2. Peeled and slice the carrots into uniform rounds or sticks about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring even cooking and caramelization later.
  3. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, releasing a toasty aroma. Once melted and bubbling, add the sliced carrots and stir to coat them evenly in the butter.
  4. Cook the carrots for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop golden edges. You should hear a gentle sizzle and see a slight caramel color forming.
  5. Pour in the maple syrup and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the carrots. Stir well to coat all pieces and let the mixture bubble up for a minute or two.
  6. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the carrots, about 2-3 minutes. The carrots should be tender but still hold their shape.
  7. Finish by squeezing a splash of lemon juice over the glazed carrots and cracking some black pepper. Stir gently to combine the brightening flavor and seasonings.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and let the carrots rest for a minute. They will set into a sticky, shiny glaze that looks inviting and tastes sweet with a hint of citrus.
  9. Use tongs or a spoon to transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. Spoon any extra syrup from the pan for an extra drizzle if desired.

Notes

For an extra caramelized flavor, cook the carrots a little longer until they develop deeper color, but watch carefully to prevent burning.