Orange Glazed Carrots
Bright and flavorful, orange glazed carrots combine the natural sweetness of cooked carrots with a zesty orange glaze, accented by ginger and butter. This easy side dish adds a vibrant touch to any meal, perfect for family dinners or special occasions seeking a touch of citrusy sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ginger.
- Add orange juice to the saucepan.
- Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
- Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more.
- Stir in butter.
- Pour the glaze over hot cooked carrots and stir to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your orange glazed carrots, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you don't have cornstarch, you can substitute it with flour, though it may slightly alter the texture. For a different citrus twist, lime juice can be swapped for orange juice. These carrots can also be made ahead and reheated just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These orange glazed carrots are a delightful side dish for roasted chicken or grilled fish. They pair beautifully with Cousin Susie's Perfect Fudge for dessert, creating a lovely meal. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve them alongside quinoa or lentil salad, balancing flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover orange glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra orange juice if they seem dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Glazed Carrots contains roughly 255 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1499mg per serving (65% 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 in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the glaze.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make orange glazed carrots vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. This will maintain the richness of the dish while keeping it dairy-free.
What can I do if the glaze is too thick?
If your glaze becomes too thick, simply add a little more orange juice or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and reheat gently to incorporate the liquid.
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).