Orange Candied Carrots
Sweet and zesty candied carrots with orange and cranberry flavors, perfect as a side dish for festive occasions or a delightful addition to family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 inch of water and the carrots in a skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add butter, jellied cranberry sauce, orange peel strip, and brown sugar to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring gently, until the sauce is heated through and coats the carrots.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm carrots to ensure even cooking. You can substitute the jellied cranberry sauce with homemade cranberry sauce for a more intense flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using olive oil instead of butter. Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar to your taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet dish.
Serving Suggestions
These orange candied carrots make a vibrant side dish for holiday meals or any family dinner. They pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham and complement vegetarian recipes, adding a touch of sweetness to your plate. Consider serving them alongside creamy dishes, such as Creamy Fruit Dip (Low Fat Dip Recipe), for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to prevent drying out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the carrots mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Candied Carrots contains roughly 798 calories, with 1g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1818mg per serving (79% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the candied carrots ahead of time. Cook them according to the recipe, then let them cool and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.
What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
While the recipe focuses on carrots, you can also incorporate parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and variety. Just ensure all vegetables are cut to the same size for even cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. You can also use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a unique flavor.
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).