Sweet and Savory Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe: A Perfect Side Dish for Any Meal

If you're looking for a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, then this maple glazed carrots recipe is the perfect choice. Tender carrots coated in a buttery, rich maple glaze make for a delightful pairing with just about any main course. The balance of flavors between the sweet maple syrup and the subtle tang of apple cider vinegar will elevate your meal, turning simple carrots into a crowd-pleasing star on the table.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I came across this fantastic recipe from Insanely Good Recipes, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you all. Trust me, once you try these maple glazed carrots, you’ll never want to prepare them any other way. The secret is in the pure maple syrup, which brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots without overpowering them. Whether you're serving them for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress.

The Backstory

Carrots are a classic vegetable that have been enjoyed around the world for centuries, but glazing them with maple syrup adds a wonderful twist. I remember the first time I tasted this combination – it was during a holiday meal at a family gathering. The sweetness of the maple combined with the tender, earthy flavor of the carrots left a lasting impression on me, and I’ve been making them ever since.

Cultural Origins and Fun Facts

Did you know that maple syrup is a product native to North America, primarily produced in Canada and the northeastern United States? The rich, robust flavor of dark maple syrup adds depth to many dishes, including these carrots. It’s a great way to infuse a taste of fall into your cooking, though this dish is perfect year-round.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (preferably dark or robust)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots: Place the carrot sticks in a large skillet and add just enough water to barely cover them (about 1 cup). Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Cook the Carrots: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the carrots simmer until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Drain the carrots and set them aside.
3. Make the Maple Glaze: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Add the carrots back to the pan and toss them gently to coat evenly in the maple glaze.
4. Finish the Dish: Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze reduces and thickens slightly, making the carrots look shiny and well-coated.
5. Balance the Flavors: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. The vinegar provides a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup beautifully.
6. Serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and, if desired, garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips and Variations:

• Want to change it up? Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a touch of warm spice.
• Vegan Option: Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Pairing Suggestions: These maple glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roast chicken, ham, or pork tenderloin. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday spreads like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

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