Description
This easy Candied Carrots recipe offers a sweet and tender side dish made with simple wholesome ingredients and a natural gelling agent for a glossy finish. Perfect for any meal, these vibrant, luscious carrots add color, sweetness, and elegance to your plate, making them ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Peel and slice fresh carrots into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking and tender texture.
- Cook Carrots Until Tender: Place the sliced carrots in a pot of boiling water and simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Glaze: In a skillet over medium heat, melt plant-based butter. Add brown sugar (natural), apple cider vinegar, orange zest, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves and glaze forms.
- Coat and Simmer: Add the cooked carrots to the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and cook for a few more minutes until the glaze thickens and clings to the carrots with a glossy finish.
- Serve While Warm: Transfer candied carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or toasted nuts if desired. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm carrots for optimal texture and sweetness.
- Cut carrots uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer glaze on medium to low heat to prevent burning.
- Add orange zest near the end to preserve its bright aroma.
- Choose quality plant-based butter for richer flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Candied Carrots, Plant-based side dish, Sweet carrots, Gluten free side, Vegetable glaze
