Sweet Maple Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Experience the delightful balance of sweetness and tang with these Sweet Maple Balsamic Glazed Carrots. This dish features tender baby carrots coated in a rich, maple syrup and balsamic glaze, enhanced by the savory depth of beef broth. Perfectly cooked al dente, these carrots are a wonderful side for any meal, offering a vibrant color and delicious flavor profile. For those who prefer a softer texture, simply extend the cooking time for a more candied treat that melts in your mouth. Elevate your dining experience with this simple yet elegant vegetable dish that will surely steal the spotlight.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby carrots
1 lb (washed and trimmed)
beef broth
1/2 cup (preferably low-sodium)
maple syrup
1/4 cup (100% pure)
unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
salt
to taste (add as needed)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (preferably aged)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, combine the washed and trimmed baby carrots, beef broth, maple syrup, melted unsalted butter, salt, and black pepper.
2
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring all the ingredients blend well.
3
Once boiling, cover the skillet and reduce heat slightly, cooking for 3 minutes. If you prefer a softer carrot, increase the covered cooking time to 5 minutes.
4
Remove the lid, increase heat to high, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes. Stir frequently until the carrots are tender and the liquid has reduced to about 2 tablespoons.
5
Drizzle balsamic vinegar into the skillet and continue to stir and sauté for 1-2 minutes, allowing the liquid to thicken into a nice glaze.
6
Remove from heat and serve warm as a delightful and colorful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet Maple Balsamic Glazed Carrots?
They are tender baby carrots coated in a rich glaze made of maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and beef broth.
What is the flavor profile of this carrot dish?
The dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tang, enhanced by the savory depth of beef broth.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What kind of carrots should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of baby carrots that have been washed and trimmed.
How much beef broth is required for the glaze?
You will need 1/2 cup of beef broth, preferably a low-sodium version.
What type of maple syrup is recommended?
It is recommended to use 1/4 cup of 100% pure maple syrup.
Can I use salted butter for the carrots?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, but you can adjust the added salt if you use salted butter.
What kind of balsamic vinegar works best?
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, preferably an aged variety, is used to create the glaze.
How do I start the cooking process?
Combine the baby carrots, beef broth, maple syrup, melted butter, salt, and pepper in a large skillet.
What heat setting should I use initially?
Bring the carrot mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
How long should I cook the carrots covered?
Cover the skillet and cook for 3 minutes for an al dente texture.
How do I get softer, candied carrots?
Increase the covered cooking time to 5 minutes if you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What do I do after covering the carrots?
Remove the lid, increase the heat to high, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes.
How much liquid should remain before adding the vinegar?
Cook and stir until the liquid has reduced to approximately 2 tablespoons.
When do I add the balsamic vinegar?
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar into the skillet once the initial liquid has reduced.
How long do I sauté the carrots with the vinegar?
Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the liquid thickens into a nice glaze.
How should these carrots be served?
Serve the carrots warm as a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe and a vegetable-based side dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: baby carrots, beef broth, maple syrup, unsalted butter, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
Can I use freshly ground black pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests using freshly ground black pepper to taste.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe falls under the Vegetable category.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as easy cooking and suitable for a family meal.
What makes this dish elegant?
The vibrant color and the glossy maple balsamic glaze provide a sophisticated presentation.
Do I need to stir the carrots during cooking?
Yes, stir frequently during the high-heat phase to ensure the carrots are evenly tender and the glaze forms properly.
Can I adjust the salt levels?
Yes, salt is added to taste to suit your personal preference.
What is the texture of the glaze?
The glaze should be thick enough to coat the carrots nicely after the final sauté step.
How do I prepare the baby carrots?
Ensure they are washed and trimmed before adding them to the skillet.
Is there a specific way to melt the butter?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of melted butter, which can be done in a microwave or small pan.
What is the purpose of the beef broth?
The beef broth provides a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Can this be served with any meal?
Yes, these glazed carrots are a versatile side dish that complements many different types of main courses.