Southern Style Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory glazed carrots with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and warm spices, topped with pecans for a delightful side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook carrots in boiling water until tender.
- Drain and set aside.
- In the same saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, butter, seasoned salt, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked carrots to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher flavor, consider using freshly squeezed pineapple juice instead of canned. If you want a unique twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice. If you're short on time, baby carrots can be used as a quick substitute. Ensure to cook them just until tender to maintain their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Southern Style Glazed Carrots make an excellent side dish for a holiday meal or barbecue. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, such as glazed ham or turkey. For a complete dinner, serve alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. They also work well in vegetarian recipes as a hearty side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover glazed 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 additional pineapple juice to prevent drying out. Microwaving is also an option but may result in softer carrots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Style Glazed Carrots contains roughly 683 calories, with 3g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1779mg per serving (77% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze a day in advance. Simply cook the carrots and make the glaze, then combine them before serving. When ready to serve, just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra juice if necessary.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar can also be used for a different but tasty option.
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be aware that they may become softer when cooked. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and consider reducing the boiling time to prevent them from becoming mushy. Ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the glaze.
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).