Caramelized Parmesan Glazed Carrots
Elevate your meal with these irresistibly sweet and savory Caramelized Parmesan Glazed Carrots. Slow-cooked to perfection, these carrots unlock a deeply rich, caramelized flavor that Marcella Hazan praises as unparalleled in Italian and other culinary traditions. Prepared with simplicity, this dish transforms everyday carrots into a gourmet experience, ideal for gatherings or intimate dinners. Lightly sweetened and enriched with Parmesan cheese, these carrots strike a balance between rustic charm and refined elegance. Although designed to serve six, be warned: they're so delectable, you might want to double the recipe!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
carrots
1.5 lbs (peeled, washed, and sliced into 3/8-inch disks)
sugar
1/4 teaspoon
butter
4 tablespoons
parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons (freshly grated)
salt
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the carrots and washing them thoroughly in cold water. Using a sharp knife, slice them into 3/8-inch disks, with slightly thicker cuts for the tapered ends. Choose a sauté pan, or two if needed, where the carrots can be spread in a snug, single layer without overlapping.
2
Place the carrots and butter in the pan(s), then add enough water to reach 1/4-inch depth on the sides of the pan. Turn the heat to medium, leaving the pan uncovered for even cooking.
3
Allow the water to evaporate completely before adding salt and sugar. Continue cooking, gradually adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of water as necessary. Stir occasionally.
4
The goal is to achieve beautifully browned, wrinkly carrot disks with enhanced flavor and texture. This process will take 1 to 1 1/2 hours, during which time you can multitask but keep an eye on the carrots to prevent burning.
5
As the carrots become tender and reduce in bulk, combine them into a single pan if using two.
6
Once tender and browned, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Gently turn the carrots to ensure even coating. Transfer them to a warm platter and serve immediately for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Caramelized Parmesan Glazed Carrots?
They are an irresistibly sweet and savory vegetable side dish where carrots are slow-cooked until deeply caramelized and finished with a coating of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this carrot recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What ingredients do I need for this dish?
You will need 1.5 lbs of carrots, 1/4 teaspoon of sugar, 4 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste.
How long does it take to cook Caramelized Parmesan Glazed Carrots?
The slow-cooking process to achieve the ideal texture and caramelization takes approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
How should the carrots be sliced?
The carrots should be sliced into 3/8-inch disks, with slightly thicker cuts for the tapered ends to ensure even cooking.
What is the secret to the flavor in this recipe?
The secret lies in the long, slow-cooking process which Marcella Hazan praises for unlocking a deeply rich, caramelized flavor unparalleled in other culinary traditions.
Do I need to cover the pan while cooking?
No, the pan should be left uncovered to allow the water to evaporate and the carrots to brown evenly.
What kind of pan is best for this recipe?
Use a sauté pan large enough to allow the carrots to spread in a snug, single layer without overlapping.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese?
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese once the carrots are tender and beautifully browned, just before serving.
Should the carrots be peeled?
Yes, the instructions recommend peeling the carrots and washing them in cold water before slicing.
How much water is used during the cooking process?
Initially, add enough water to reach 1/4-inch depth in the pan. Later, add 2 to 3 tablespoons at a time as needed to keep the process going.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to use two separate sauté pans to ensure the carrots remain in a single layer for proper caramelization.
What is the final texture of the carrots?
The goal is to achieve wrinkly carrot disks that are tender and have a concentrated, enhanced flavor.
Is this recipe considered a gourmet dish?
Yes, it transforms everyday carrots into a gourmet experience that strikes a balance between rustic charm and refined elegance.
What type of cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is specified to provide the best flavor and even coating.
What heat setting should I use?
The carrots should be cooked over medium heat.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
Yes, a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) of sugar is used to lightly sweeten and assist with the caramelization process.
When do I add the salt and sugar?
Salt and sugar should be added only after the initial water has completely evaporated from the pan.
Can I use baby carrots instead?
While sliced whole carrots are recommended for the 3/8-inch disk shape, the same technique could be applied to baby carrots, though cooking times may vary.
Is this dish suitable for a dinner party?
Absolutely, its sophisticated flavor and elegant presentation make it ideal for dinner parties and gatherings.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include Italian, side dish, vegetable, carrots, parmesan, caramelized, gourmet, comfort food, and dinner party.
How often should I stir the carrots?
Stir the carrots occasionally to ensure they brown evenly and to prevent them from burning.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
For the best flavor and texture experience, it is recommended to serve the carrots immediately after adding the cheese.
Why do the carrots become wrinkly?
The wrinkly appearance is a result of the long caramelization process as the moisture leaves the carrot and the sugars concentrate.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of butter.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended as it melts and coats the carrots better than most pre-grated varieties.
What if the carrots aren't tender after the water evaporates?
Continue cooking and gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water as necessary until they reach the desired tenderness.
Is this a traditional Italian dish?
Yes, it is based on Italian culinary traditions and praised by renowned chefs like Marcella Hazan.
How do I prevent the carrots from overlapping?
Choose a large enough sauté pan or split the carrots between two pans to maintain a single layer.
What should I serve these with?
These carrots are a versatile side dish that pairs well with roast chicken, beef, or as part of a vegetarian feast.