Brandied Carrots
Sweet and savory brandied carrots feature tender carrots cooked in butter, pineapple juice, and a hint of sugar and salt, perfect as a side dish for festive or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut carrots into 2 1/2 x 1/4-inch strips.
- Place carrots in an ungreased 8 x 8 x 2-inch square pan.
- Mix melted butter, pineapple juice, sugar, and salt; pour over the carrots.
- Cover and cook in a 375° F oven until carrots are tender, about 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose fresh, firm carrots that are not too large. You can substitute the pineapple juice with orange juice for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the sugar slightly. Additionally, adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the dish's warmth. This recipe is a lovely American dish that can be served alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Serving Suggestions
These brandied carrots are delightful when served warm as a side dish. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken or pork, complementing the savory flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. This dish can also be a great addition to holiday gatherings, making it a perfect companion for recipes like Pennsylvania Dutch Beets And Pickled Eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brandied carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more butter to prevent them from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brandied Carrots contains roughly 203 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish. Frozen carrots may cook faster than fresh ones, so reduce the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain tender and flavorful.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure that the pineapple juice is 100% juice with no added sugars. This will keep the essence of the dish while accommodating a vegan diet.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers or green beans, to the dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so you might need to adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender and cooked through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).