Cinnamon Carrots
Sweet and savory cinnamon carrots with a tangy tomato glaze, perfect as a side dish for family dinners or festive occasions, offering warm spices and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together cornstarch, tomato juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Over medium heat, stir the mixture until it boils and thickens.
- Add the cooked and drained frozen baby carrots to the saucepan.
- Heat through, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh grated ginger or a splash of orange juice for a citrus note. If you don't have tomato juice, vegetable broth can work as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly. For a vegan version, ensure the brown sugar is vegan-friendly, as some brands are processed with bone char.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cinnamon carrots alongside roasted meats or as a vibrant side for a vegetarian meal. They pair beautifully with dishes like Baked Barbecued Ribs or Pecan Chess Bars for a sweet finish. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts can also give a delightful crunch and enhance the dish's flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Carrots contains roughly 295 calories, with 1g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% 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 fresh carrots instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh carrots! Just peel and slice them into similar-sized pieces, and blanch them in boiling water for about 5 minutes before adding them to the sauce to ensure they cook evenly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes when stirring the sauce. This will create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Is there a way to make this dish less sweet?
Certainly! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or substitute it with a sugar alternative like stevia, adjusting to taste. You may also want to add a bit more cinnamon to balance the flavors.
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).