Hawaiian Carrots
Hawaiian Carrots are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender carrots and juicy pineapple in a thick, sweet sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, adding a tropical twist to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrape and cut carrots into small pieces or chunks.
- Cook and drain the carrots, then salt them.
- Drain the pineapple.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup pineapple juice, cornstarch, oleo, and brown sugar; cook until thick.
- Add the carrots and pineapple to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- For best flavor, make a day ahead.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Hawaiian Carrots, consider adding a splash of coconut milk for a creamier texture or using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly. If fresh pineapple is available, it can be diced and used in place of canned for a fresher taste. This dish pairs well with Easters Hamburgers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hawaiian Carrots as a colorful side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a festive meal. They pair wonderfully with Lazy Day Salad for a refreshing contrast. For an added crunch, top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts before serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as it may make the carrots mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Carrots contains roughly 169 calories, with 1g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% 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 frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen carrots can be used as a substitute. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before adding them to the dish. However, fresh carrots will provide a better texture and flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly as frozen carrots may require slightly less cooking time.
Is there a vegan alternative for cornstarch?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for a vegan-friendly thickening agent. Both work similarly and will achieve a comparable consistency in the sauce without altering the flavor significantly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. Alternatively, freshly grated ginger can provide a warm spice that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and carrots beautifully.
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).