Orange Glaze Carrots
Sweet and tangy orange glaze carrots combine tender cooked carrots with a bright, citrusy coating, making them a delightful side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dilute the frozen orange juice with one can of water before measuring.
- In a saucepan, combine boiling water, sugar, salt, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil.
- Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to make a slurry, then add to the boiling mixture.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Add the orange juice and melted margarine to the sauce, stirring well.
- Peel and cut the carrots into desired size, then cook them until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Drain the carrots and toss them with the orange glaze sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a bit more sugar or using honey instead. If you're out of fresh carrots, frozen ones can work too but adjust the cooking time. You can also substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor. To elevate the sauce, try adding a dash of soy sauce for an umami twist.
Serving Suggestions
These orange glaze carrots make a delightful side dish, pairing beautifully with Barbecued Chicken In The Oven or your favorite protein. Consider serving them alongside a grain like quinoa or rice to complete the meal. For a colorful plate, add a green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover orange glaze carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave them or warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. They can also be enjoyed cold as a salad addition.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Glaze Carrots contains roughly 218 calories, with 3g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1795mg per serving (78% 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 orange juice instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice, which will give the glaze a brighter flavor. Just make sure to measure out the same amount as the frozen juice, adjusting for sweetness if needed.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the recipe vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or olive oil. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is vegan, as some sugar is processed with animal products.
What other vegetables can I use with this glaze?
You can use this orange glaze on a variety of vegetables, such as green beans, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable's tenderness.
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).