Golden Butter-Braised Carrots
This delightful side dish features tender, golden-brown carrots braised in a luscious buttery sauce, enhanced by a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor. Perfectly suited as a companion to fried meats or succulent fish, these carrots deliver a comforting balance of taste and nutrition. Utilizing just a touch of sugar to elevate the natural sweetness of the carrots, this recipe showcases their vibrant flavor while remaining simple and quick. Your guests will rave about the beautifully glazed finish and aromatic herb garnish, making this a recipe you'll return to time and again.
4-6
Servings
37
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Carrots
2 lbs (Peeled and cut into 1/8 inch rounds or 1/4 inch dice)
Butter
1 tablespoon (Unsalted)
Sugar
1/2 teaspoon (Granulated)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon
Hot water
1/4-3/4 cup
Parsley or Chervil
2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling the carrots and cutting them into uniform 1/8 inch rounds or 1/4 inch dice to ensure even cooking.
2
In a wide, low pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the prepared carrots and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Look for a glossy appearance, indicating the carrots have begun to caramelize.
3
Sprinkle the sugar over the carrots and continue cooking for an additional minute, mixing well to ensure even distribution.
4
Add the salt and 1/4 cup of hot water to the pot. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and allow the mixture to simmer. Check on the carrots every few minutes and stir occasionally. If necessary, add more hot water in small increments to prevent sticking. The desired result is a dish that is nearly dry but maintains a lovely coating of buttery goodness.
5
While the carrots usually take about 10 minutes to become tender, cooking times may vary depending on the freshness and variety of the carrots. Taste and adjust cooking time as per your preference.
6
Finally, once the carrots are fork-tender, transfer them to a serving dish and generously sprinkle with the chopped parsley or chervil before serving. This finishing touch not only adds a pop of color but also complements fish dishes beautifully.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
5g
Carbs
0g
Protein
2g
Fiber
1g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Golden Butter-Braised Carrots?
They are tender, golden-brown carrots cooked in a buttery glaze with a hint of sugar and fresh herbs.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 37 calories.
What is the main cooking technique used?
The carrots are braised in butter and a small amount of water.
How should the carrots be cut?
Cut them into 1/8 inch rounds or 1/4 inch dice for even cooking.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifies using 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar is used to enhance the carrots' natural sweetness.
What herbs are best for garnishing?
Freshly chopped parsley or chervil are recommended.
How much water is needed for braising?
Initially 1/4 cup of hot water, with more added in small increments if needed.
How long does it take to cook the carrots?
It typically takes about 10 minutes for the carrots to become tender once simmering.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 2 grams of fat per serving.
Are these carrots gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What type of cuisine is this recipe associated with?
This is a German cuisine inspired vegetable side dish.
Can I use baby carrots instead?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on their thickness.
What should I serve these carrots with?
They pair perfectly with fried meats or succulent fish dishes.
How do I know when the carrots are finished cooking?
They should be fork-tender and have a glossy, buttery coating with very little liquid remaining.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
Yes, the instructions recommend peeling the carrots before slicing.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fiber is in this dish?
There are 2 grams of fiber per serving.
What happens if the water evaporates before the carrots are tender?
You should add more hot water in small increments to prevent sticking and allow them to finish cooking.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it is suitable for vegetarians.
Is this recipe vegan?
No, it contains butter. To make it vegan, you would need to use a plant-based butter substitute.
How much protein is in this dish?
This side dish contains 0 grams of protein.
What temperature should I use for sautéing?
Medium heat is used for the initial sautéing of the carrots in butter.
Why do I need to add sugar?
The sugar helps elevate the natural sweetness of the carrots and assists in the caramelization process.
What kind of pot should I use?
A wide, low pot is ideal for even heat distribution and braising.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be reheated gently, though it is best served fresh for the best texture.
What color should the carrots be when done?
They should have a golden-brown, glazed appearance.
Is the sodium content high?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt for 2 lbs of carrots, which is relatively low, though specific sodium totals are not provided.