Brown Sugar Carrots
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If you’re searching for a side dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, look no further than Brown Sugar Carrots. These tender, caramelized roasted carrots are a delightful addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast. The magic lies in their simplicity: just a handful of ingredients transform humble carrots into a show-stopping side dish.
This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also vegan, making it perfect for everyone at the table. With the natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by brown sugar, a touch of garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor. You only need a few pantry staples like brown sugar, vegan butter, garlic, salt, and pepper to create a delicious glaze that complements the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Perfect for Any Occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or crafting an elaborate holiday spread, this carrot side dish adds color and flavor to your table.
- Kid-Friendly. The sweetness of these sweet carrots makes them an appealing vegetable choice for kids, encouraging healthy eating in a delicious way.
- Versatile and Customizable. You can adjust the sweetness, spice, or even add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a personal twist.
- Naturally Vegan. This recipe is plant-based and dairy-free, making it ideal for vegans or anyone looking to include more plant-based dishes in their diet.
Ingredient Notes
- Carrots
- Look for fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Baby carrots or heirloom carrots in various colors can add visual appeal to the dish.
- Brown Sugar
- Provides the signature sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze.
- You can substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option.
- Vegan Butter
- Adds richness and helps the glaze stick to the roasted carrots.
- Use high-quality vegan butter for the best flavor.
- Garlic
- Fresh minced garlic adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper
- Enhances the flavors and ensures the dish isn’t overly sweet.
- Fresh Parsley
- Provides a vibrant, fresh garnish that complements the caramelized flavors.
Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe Tips
- Cut Carrots Evenly. Slice the carrots into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Small carrots can be left whole, while larger ones should be halved or quartered.
- Mix the Glaze Thoroughly. Combine the glaze ingredients in a bowl to evenly coat the carrots before roasting.
- Use Parchment Paper. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roast at High Heat. Roast the carrots at 400°F (200°C) to achieve tender interiors and caramelized exteriors.
- Flip Midway. Toss the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization.
Vegan Serving Suggestions
These sweet carrots are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of vegan main courses, such as:
- Vegan Lentil Loaf: A hearty, savory loaf complements the sweet and savory flavors of the carrots.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes balances the caramelized richness of the carrots.
- Quinoa Salad: Add these brown sugar carrots to a grain salad for a burst of flavor.
Food and Drink Pairings
- Main Course Pairings
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: A vegetable-forward main course that complements this carrot side dish.
- Vegan Shepherd’s Pie: A hearty and comforting pairing.
- Drinks
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that balances the dish’s richness.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator. Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their caramelized texture.
- Alternatively, use a microwave for a quicker option, though they may lose some crispiness.
- Freezing. While freezing is not ideal for maintaining the texture, you can freeze these carrots in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brown Sugar Carrots
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze and toss it with the carrots in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and roast them just before serving. - Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
Absolutely! Maple syrup adds a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile. - What can I use instead of vegan butter?
Olive oil or coconut oil are great substitutes, though the flavor will vary slightly. - Can I use frozen carrots?
While fresh carrots yield the best texture, frozen carrots can work if thawed and patted dry first. - What herbs can I use instead of parsley?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill are excellent alternatives for garnishing. - How do I prevent the carrots from being too soft?
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and ensure the carrots are evenly spaced for proper roasting. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
Essential Equipment
- Baking Sheet
A sturdy baking sheet ensures even roasting. - Mixing Bowl
Use a large bowl to toss the carrots with the glaze. - Vegetable Peeler
For peeling fresh carrots easily and efficiently. - Parchment Paper
Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup. - Tongs or Spatula
For flipping the carrots during roasting.
These Brown Sugar Carrots are the ultimate carrot side dish for any occasion. Their vibrant color, caramelized glaze, and tender texture make them a standout addition to your menu. Plus, their vegan, kid-friendly, and customizable nature ensures they’ll be a hit with everyone at the table.
Have you tried this recipe for sweet carrots? Share your thoughts in the comments below! What herbs or spices did you add to make it your own? I’d love to hear your feedback and variations. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you make this dish – I can’t wait to see your creations!
Brown Sugar Carrots
These Brown Sugar Carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Roasted to perfection with a glaze of brown sugar, vegan butter, and garlic, they make the perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if small
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If your carrots are large, slice them lengthwise into sticks. If using small, tender carrots, leave them whole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted vegan butter, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the prepared carrots to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
- Transfer the glazed carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out into a single layer for even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Slice your carrots into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- Space out the carrots on the baking sheet to allow for even roasting and a crispier texture.
- Toss the carrots halfway through roasting to ensure they get perfectly caramelized on all sides.
