Maple glazed carrots are a delightful and elegant side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe, inspired by traditional holiday meals, is a staple for any occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of pure maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter creates a rich, sticky glaze that coats tender carrots, adding a beautiful caramelized finish. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons real maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Melt Butter and Combine Syrup and Sugar: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the maple syrup and brown sugar, stirring until they are well combined.

2. Add Carrots: Add the baby carrots to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly with the syrup mixture.

3. Cover and Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender but still crisp.

4. Season with Salt and Pepper: Remove the lid and season the carrots with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Garnish with Fresh Parsley: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the carrots for a fresh and herbaceous touch.

6. Serve Warm: Serve the maple glazed carrots warm, allowing the glaze to set slightly before serving.

Top Tips:

1. Use Real Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use real maple syrup instead of pancake syrup.
2. Adjust Sugar to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
3. Stir Regularly: Stir the carrots regularly while they are simmering to ensure even glazing.
4. Test for Tenderness: Check the carrots for tenderness by inserting a fork. They should be slightly resistant to the fork but not hard.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.
6. Reheat Carefully: When reheating, add a little water to the skillet and cover it to prevent the glaze from burning.

Variations:

1. Honey Glazed Carrots: Replace maple syrup with honey for a different flavor profile.
2. Spiced Carrots: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Herby Carrots: Mix in some chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for a herby twist.
4. Roasted Carrots: Roast the carrots in the oven with the glaze instead of stovetop cooking for a caramelized finish.
5. Glazed Carrot Medley: Use a mix of carrot colors and shapes for a visually appealing dish.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in fat and calories but high in carbohydrates due to the maple syrup and brown sugar. The carrots provide a good amount of fiber and vitamins, making this dish a nutritious addition to your meal. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar or using sugar-free alternatives.