These glazed carrots are a sweet and zesty side dish, packed with the bright flavors of orange and a hint of ginger. They’re easy to make and add a lovely pop of color to your plate!
I love how the orange juice makes the carrots shine and taste amazing. Plus, my kitchen smells so good while they cook. You might just want to eat them straight from the pan! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are sweet and tender, making them perfect for this dish. If you can’t find baby carrots, regular carrots cut into sticks work just as well. You might want to cook them a minute longer to ensure they’re tender.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor here, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. For a different twist, substitute with lemon juice for a tangier taste.
Ginger: Fresh grated ginger adds a nice kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger, use ground ginger instead, but reduce the amount to 1/4 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
Butter: Unsalted butter is classic for this recipe, providing richness. If you’re dairy-free, try margarine or coconut oil. Both will work nicely!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Honey brings a floral sweetness. Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative. You could also use agave nectar if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Glaze for My Carrots?
Creating a beautiful glaze is all about the right cooking technique. You’ll want to concentrate your flavors by simmering the carrots in the orange-ginger mixture, then reduce the sauce for that glossy finish. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Simmer the carrots with the lid on to steam them until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Keep stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
- Once tender, remove the lid and crank up the heat to medium-high to help reduce the sauce.
- As the liquid thickens, keep stirring to prevent it from burning and to coat the carrots evenly.
With these steps, you’ll have carrots that shine with flavor and look fantastic on your plate!
Delicious Glazed Carrots With Orange And Ginger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 lb (450g) baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes simmering the carrots, and another 5-10 minutes reducing the glaze. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glaze:
Start by grabbing a large skillet or saucepan. In it, combine the fresh orange juice, finely grated ginger, honey or maple syrup, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Feel free to give it a little stir to mix everything well!
2. Add Carrots:
Once the mixture is simmering, it’s time to add the baby carrots. Toss them gently in the orange-ginger liquid so they get coated nicely. They’ll soak up that flavor while cooking!
3. Simmer the Carrots:
Cover the pan with a lid and let the carrots simmer in the glaze for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, stir them occasionally so they cook evenly. You want them to be tender but still have a little crunch!
4. Make It a Glaze:
Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. This will help reduce the liquid to a thick glaze. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to prevent burning. This should take about 5 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is thick and syrupy.
5. Add Butter and Zest:
When the glaze is nice and thick, add in the unsalted butter and orange zest. Stir them in until the butter melts and the carrots glisten with that lovely glaze.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your beautifully glazed carrots to a serving dish and, if you like, garnish with fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy this tasty side dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Carrots for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby carrots are convenient and sweet, you can use regular carrots cut into bite-sized pieces. They may need a minute or two more to cook until tender.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Orange Juice?
No problem! Bottled orange juice can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s100% orange juice for the best flavor, and avoid sweetened varieties for a more balanced taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use maple syrup for the sweetener. It’ll be just as delicious and entirely vegan!
