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Melting Carrots

Melting Carrots
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Melting Carrots is a comforting and simple side dish that turns humble carrots into tender, sweet, and buttery bites. Slow-cooked with butter and brown sugar, these carrots develop a luscious caramel glaze and natural sweetness that can elevate any meal. Perfectly soft with a rich, flavorful depth, melting carrots are quick to prepare, versatile, kid-friendly, and pair beautifully with both meat and vegetarian dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into uniform chunks or slices
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup water or broth
  • Black pepper, to taste (optional)

Optional Variations

  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (for herb infusion)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg (for spiced twist)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter (for vegan version, substituting butter)
  • 1 tsp orange or lemon zest (for citrus zest)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (as a substitute for brown sugar)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Carrots: Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into uniform chunks or slices to ensure even cooking and achieve the perfect tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  2. Combine Ingredients in a Pan: Place the carrots in a wide skillet or saucepan. Add the butter, brown sugar, salt, and water or broth to create a gentle simmer environment.
  3. Slow Cook on Low Heat: Cover the pan and simmer the carrots on low heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the carrots to soften slowly and absorb the buttery sweetness.
  4. Reduce Liquid and Caramelize: Once the carrots are tender, remove the lid to let excess liquid evaporate. Stir gently as the carrots develop a light caramel glaze.
  5. Season and Serve: Finish with optional black pepper or your preferred herbs and spices. Serve warm as a deliciously rich and sweet side dish that enhances any dinner.

Notes

  • Cut carrots uniformly to ensure consistent cooking and tenderness.
  • Cook on low heat to prevent burning and encourage full flavor development.
  • Use plenty of butter for optimal richness and texture.
  • Be patient during the slow simmer to achieve perfect softness.
  • Add herbs and spices toward the end of cooking for fresher, more vibrant flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: melting carrots, buttery carrots, caramelized carrots, side dish, easy carrot recipe, slow cooked carrots, kid-friendly vegetables, gluten free side

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