Sweet And Sour Carrots
Sweet and Sour Carrots is a vibrant side dish featuring tender carrots combined with crunchy green peppers and juicy pineapple chunks, all coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful addition to any meal, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook carrots, covered, in a small amount of water until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add green pepper; cook for 3 minutes longer.
- Drain the vegetables.
- Drain pineapple; save juice.
- Add water if necessary to make 1/3 cup of liquid.
- Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan; stir in pineapple juice, vinegar, and soy sauce.
- Cook until thick, stirring constantly.
- Add sauce and pineapple to vegetables; heat through.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding a splash of orange juice along with the pineapple juice for extra flavor. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute fresh pineapple with canned pineapple in its own juice for convenience. Make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the pineapple used.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet and Sour Carrots make a vibrant side dish for grilled meats or fish, and pair beautifully with dishes like Venison Sauce Piquante. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or over quinoa for a complete meal. They can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them great for potlucks or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for a quick option, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Carrots contains roughly 163 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to prevent excess moisture. The cooking time may be reduced since frozen carrots are often blanched before freezing.
What can I substitute for sugar if I want a healthier option?
You can use honey or agave syrup as a natural sweetener. If you're looking for a low-calorie alternative, consider using stevia or another sugar substitute that measures like sugar. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level you prefer.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Just be sure to check that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free if needed. It's a delightful addition to any vegan recipes collection.
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).