Zesty Orange Ginger Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable side dish with our Zesty Orange Ginger Glazed Carrots. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of baby carrots with a tangy orange ginger glaze that strikes the perfect balance between citrus and spice. The addition of warming ground ginger enhances the flavor profile, making it a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, these glazed carrots are not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Whether served at a family gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish promises to impress and satisfy.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby carrots
3/4 lb (washed and sliced into 2-3 pieces)
sugar
1 tablespoon (granulated)
cornstarch
1 teaspoon (for thickening)
ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (for warming spice flavor)
ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground for optimal flavor)
orange juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed if possible)
butter
1 1/2 teaspoons (unsalted for a richer taste)
Instructions
1
Begin by slicing each baby carrot into 2 or 3 pieces to ensure even cooking. Place the prepared carrots in a 1-quart casserole dish with 1/4 cup of water.
2
Cover the dish tightly and microwave on high power for about 10 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender. Carefully remove from microwave and set aside.
3
While the carrots are cooking, combine the sugar, cornstarch, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger in a small saucepan. Add the orange juice to the dry mixture.
4
Place the saucepan over medium heat and continuously stir the mixture until it begins to thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated.
6
Check the casserole dish with the carrots; if there is any excess water, pour it off. Pour the orange ginger sauce over the cooked carrots and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
7
Cover the dish again and let the carrots sit for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the sauce before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Orange Ginger Glazed Carrots?
Zesty Orange Ginger Glazed Carrots are a flavorful vegetable side dish featuring baby carrots coated in a tangy glaze made from orange juice, ginger, and nutmeg.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the primary cooking method for the carrots?
The carrots are steamed in the microwave before being tossed in a stovetop glaze.
How should the baby carrots be prepared for this recipe?
The baby carrots should be washed and sliced into 2 or 3 pieces each to ensure even cooking.
How much water is needed to steam the carrots?
You will need 1/4 cup of water in the casserole dish for steaming.
What size casserole dish is recommended?
A 1-quart casserole dish is recommended for cooking the carrots.
How long do the carrots need to microwave?
The carrots should be microwaved on high power for approximately 10 minutes until fork-tender.
What ingredients are used in the dry mixture for the glaze?
The dry mixture consists of sugar, cornstarch, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.
What liquid is used to create the glaze?
1/4 cup of orange juice is added to the dry ingredient mixture to create the glaze liquid.
How long does it take for the orange ginger sauce to thicken?
The sauce typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes to thicken over medium heat while stirring continuously.
When should the butter be added to the glaze?
The butter should be stirred into the glaze after the saucepan has been removed from the heat.
Do I need to drain the water from the carrots?
Yes, any excess water should be poured off the cooked carrots before adding the glaze.
How long should the glazed carrots sit before serving?
The carrots should sit covered for 4 to 5 minutes to allow them to fully absorb the sauce.
What spices provide the 'zesty' flavor in this dish?
Ground ginger and ground nutmeg provide the warm and zesty flavor profile.
Can I use fresh orange juice for this recipe?
Yes, freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended for optimal flavor.
How many total ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 7 ingredients: baby carrots, sugar, cornstarch, nutmeg, ginger, orange juice, and butter.
Is this recipe considered a quick side dish?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and easy recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners.
What kind of butter is suggested for this recipe?
Unsalted butter is suggested to achieve a richer taste.
Why is cornstarch included in the ingredients?
Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent to give the glaze the right consistency.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative.
What is the total weight of carrots needed?
You will need 3/4 lb of baby carrots.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your cornstarch and spice labels to be certain.
What should I do if the carrots are not fork-tender after 10 minutes?
Microwave them in 1-minute increments until they reach the desired tenderness.
Why should I slice the baby carrots?
Slicing them into 2 or 3 pieces ensures they cook more evenly and are easier to eat.
What type of sugar does the recipe call for?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
What role does the nutmeg play in the glaze?
The nutmeg adds a warming spice flavor that complements the citrus and ginger.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots as long as you peel and slice them into small, uniform pieces.
What is the best way to ensure the carrots are well-coated?
Toss the carrots gently with the sauce once it is poured into the casserole dish.
Does this dish store well as leftovers?
Yes, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the purpose of covering the dish during the final sitting period?
Covering the dish traps the heat and moisture, helping the carrots absorb the flavors of the glaze.