Carrot Pennies
Carrot Pennies are a vibrant, sweet and tangy side dish featuring tender carrots combined with onions, green peppers, and a flavorful vinegar and tomato soup glaze. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, they offer a delightful mix of textures and bold flavors that complement a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the carrots until tender.
- Add the onions, green peppers, salt, and pepper to the carrots.
- Heat the remaining ingredients (sugar, salad oil, vinegar, dry mustard, tomato soup) just to boiling.
- Pour the hot mixture over the carrot and vegetable mixture.
- Chill well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter taste, consider increasing the sugar slightly or using honey as a natural alternative. You can also substitute the salad oil with olive oil for a richer flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cut carrots and frozen mixed vegetables can be used. To add a kick, include a dash of hot sauce or use spicy mustard instead of dry mustard.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carrot Pennies as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or hearty dishes like Simmered Franks. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more after a day, making it perfect for next-day meals. When reheating, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat to maintain the texture of the carrots, or enjoy cold as a refreshing salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Pennies contains roughly 168 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1250mg per serving (54% 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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the salad oil and vinegar you use are plant-based. The sugar should also be vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. This dish is naturally vegan, making it a great option for plant-based diets.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of black pepper or leave it out entirely for a milder taste. Alternatively, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of heat. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
Yes, frozen carrots can be used; however, they might have a different texture compared to fresh ones. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking them. The cooking time may also be shortened, so keep an eye on them while they cook.
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).