Mary'S Orange Carrots
Sweet, tangy orange carrots glazed with a citrus-infused syrup, perfect as a side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings, offering vibrant flavor and appealing candied texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer sugar, margarine, and orange juice for 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Pour the syrup over drained mandarin oranges and sliced carrots in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg.
- Heat until bubbly and carrots are candied, about 10 minutes. Can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh orange juice instead of frozen. If you prefer a lower sugar option, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup and add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. Additionally, using fresh carrots instead of canned can enhance the dish's texture, but you will need to cook them until tender before adding the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
These orange carrots make a delightful side dish, especially alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. They pair beautifully with American recipes like Honey Dijon Chicken Nuggets or can be served at holiday gatherings for a festive touch. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for added color and a hint of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Orange Carrots contains roughly 1851 calories, with 10g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (305% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1542mg per serving (67% 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 canned?
Absolutely! Fresh carrots can be used for a more vibrant texture. Simply peel and slice them, then boil until tender before mixing them with the syrup. This will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting margarine with a plant-based butter alternative and ensuring the sugar used is vegan-friendly. Also, using fresh orange juice instead of frozen can enhance the flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain the flavors and texture.
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).