Maple Ginger Glazed Carrots

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple Ginger Glazed Carrots are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making them an irresistible side dish. This recipe transforms simple carrots into a vibrant, flavorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Maple Ginger Glazed Carrots

Carrots are the star of the show, offering a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Butter adds richness and helps the carrots caramelize as they cook. Maple syrup brings a deep, warm sweetness that is nicely balanced by the slight heat of fresh ginger. A touch of ground cinnamon enhances the sweetness and adds a hint of spice. Salt and black pepper round out the flavors, while fresh parsley provides a pop of color and freshness at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even cooking, try to slice the carrots to a uniform thickness.
  • Fresh ginger is key. If you don’t have any, ground ginger can work in a pinch, but use less as it's more concentrated.
  • Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

These glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork chops. They also make a delightful addition to a vegetarian platter alongside sautéed greens and quinoa. For a holiday meal, serve them alongside turkey or ham for a festive touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead?
Yes, you can use baby carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they might cook faster.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Use the same amount.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or olive oil.

Maple Ginger Glazed Carrots Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's melted and starting to bubble, toss in your carrot slices. You'll want to stir them occasionally, letting them sauté for about five minutes. This initial cooking step helps to soften the carrots slightly and begins the caramelization process.

Next, stir in the maple syrup, grated ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so that the carrots are evenly coated with this delicious, fragrant mixture.

Now, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid to let the steam work its magic, softening the carrots further and allowing the flavors to meld together. Let them simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. You'll want to check in occasionally, giving them a stir to ensure they’re cooking evenly and the glaze isn't sticking too much to the pan.

Once the carrots are tender and wonderfully glazed, they’re ready to be garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This final touch not only adds a vibrant color contrast but also a fresh herbal note that complements the sweetness of the dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or simple weeknight dinners.
  • Quick and easy with minimal ingredients.
  • The combination of maple syrup and ginger offers a unique flavor twist.
  • Uses fresh, simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Ingredients

1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the maple syrup, fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until carrots are tender and glazed, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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