Glazed Carrots(Microwave Dish)
Sweet glazed carrots cooked quickly in the microwave, offering a tender texture with a delightful caramelized flavor. The combination of brown sugar, butter, and mustard adds a savory-sweet complexity, making it an ideal side dish for family dinners or holiday meals. Perfect for those seeking a fast, flavorful vegetable side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, cook the sliced carrots in water on high for 9 to 10 minutes, stirring twice. Drain and set aside.
- Cover the casserole and set aside.
- Melt the butter on high for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the brown sugar, salt, and mustard.
- Pour the butter mixture over the drained carrots and cover.
- Heat on high for 2 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the butter mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar. You can also use frozen carrots if fresh ones aren't available; just adjust cooking time accordingly. Stir the carrots gently to avoid breaking them while mixing with the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed carrots make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or a holiday meal, pairing beautifully with a roast chicken or beef. Consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad or with vegetarian recipes like Egg Noodles for a complete dinner. They can also complement dishes such as Stuffed Celery as part of a buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Avoid prolonged heating to prevent the carrots from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Carrots(Microwave Dish) contains roughly 374 calories, with 1g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glazed carrots a day in advance. Simply cook and glaze them, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added water to keep them moist.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Alternatively, honey or agave syrup can work, but keep in mind that they will alter the flavor slightly while still providing sweetness.
How do I know when the carrots are done cooking?
The carrots are done when they are tender but not mushy. You can test them by piercing with a fork; they should offer slight resistance. If you prefer firmer carrots, reduce the cooking time by a minute or two.
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).