Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 1/2 lbs. carrots, peeled and sliced on the bias into ½ inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
Glaze
- 1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (can use dark brown sugar)
Garnish
- Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare and Boil Carrots: Place the peeled and sliced carrots in a medium-size pot. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and cover the carrots completely with cold water, making sure the water level is at least 1 inch above the carrots. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook Until Tender: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the carrots for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on their size and your preferred softness. Test by piercing the carrots with a fork to ensure they are tender.
- Drain the Carrots: Once tender, drain the carrots thoroughly and return them to the empty pot to prepare for glazing.
- Make the Brown Sugar Glaze: Cut the butter into pieces and add it to the pot with the drained carrots. Place over medium heat and melt the butter. As soon as the butter is nearly melted, add the brown sugar. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the brown sugar fully dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of carrot slices; adjust simmering time for preferred tenderness.
- Using salted butter adds flavor, but you can substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt as needed.
- Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds color and a fresh herbal note.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or freshly ground black pepper to the glaze.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
