Copper Pennies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

Copper Pennies is a vibrant, sweet and tangy carrot dish seasoned with Worcestershire, vinegar, and mustard. Perfect as a side for family dinners or potlucks, its colorful presentation and bold flavors appeal to both kids and adults seeking a nostalgic, flavorful vegetable accompaniment.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. carrots
  • 3/4 c. oil
  • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 can tomato soup
  • 1 diced green pepper
  • 1 medium diced onion
  • 3/4 c. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. mustard
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Dice the carrots and cook them until tender.
  2. Combine all remaining ingredients and heat to near boiling.
  3. Drain the cooked carrots and mix them into the sauce.
  4. Let the mixture cool before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato soup and vinegar. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. You can substitute the carrots with parsnips for a different texture and sweetness. Experiment with your favorite mustard type, like Dijon, for added depth. This dish can also be made ahead, as the flavors deepen after marinating.

Serving Suggestions

Copper Pennies can be served as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli Supreme Salad for a colorful meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or over cooked grains like quinoa or rice. This dish is also fantastic for potlucks or barbecues, as it can be made in advance and served chilled or at room temperature.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or oil if it appears too thick upon reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Copper Pennies contains roughly 1720 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 171g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (124% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 899mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

1720 kcal 86% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.1g 10% DV
Total Fat 171.4g 100% DV
Carbs 46.4g 17% DV
Fiber 8.1g 29% DV
Sugar 26.8g 54% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 898.6mg 39% DV
Potassium 1111.1mg 24% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1113.9mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 30.9mg 34% DV
Calcium 148.1mg 11% DV
Iron 3.6mg 20% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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?

Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but keep in mind that they may have a softer texture once cooked. Thaw them beforehand and adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender but not mushy. The flavors of the sauce will still penetrate the frozen carrots beautifully.

How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already quite close to vegan, but ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly, or substitute it with soy sauce or coconut aminos. Additionally, check the tomato soup for any non-vegan ingredients. This dish fits well into vegan recipes and is a delightful addition to any potluck.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced celery, zucchini, or even corn for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so that all vegetables reach the desired tenderness. Mixing in colorful vegetables can also enhance the visual appeal of your Copper Pennies.

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).

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