Carrots, Candied
Sweet and tender candied carrots with a glossy glaze, perfect as a side dish for family dinners or festive occasions, offering a delightful blend of caramelized flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the carrots in plain water until tender but still whole, then drain.
- Add cornstarch mixture, salt, butter, and sugar to the carrots.
- Cook slowly for about an hour until the mixture thickens and coats the carrots.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you want a thicker glaze, you can increase the cornstarch slightly, but be careful not to overpower the natural sweetness of the carrots. If you don't have cornstarch, arrowroot can be a suitable substitute. This recipe is a delightful addition to any American recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
These candied carrots make a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with Easy Meatloaf Dinner or Jo'S Broccoli Casserole for a balanced plate. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the glaze has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause uneven heating and texture loss.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrots, Candied contains roughly 236 calories, with 3g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1778mg per serving (77% 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 baby carrots for this recipe?
Yes, baby carrots can be used, but they may cook faster than whole carrots. Adjust boiling time accordingly to ensure they remain tender but not mushy. The glaze will still adhere beautifully, providing a sweet coating.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The flavor will slightly change, but the dish will still be delicious. Ensure that any additional ingredients you use are also vegan-friendly.
How can I enhance the flavor of the candied carrots?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or a splash of orange juice for brightness. These enhancements can elevate the dish and add complexity to the sweet glaze, making it even more enjoyable.
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).