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A white oval baking dish is filled with glossy, golden-orange caramelized carrots, glistening with sauce and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs.
Layla

Brown Sugar Glazed Caramelized Carrots

These brown sugar glazed caramelized carrots are an incredibly delicious and easy side dish, featuring tender-crisp carrots coated in a sweet, buttery, and slightly savory caramel sauce. Perfect for any meal, they add a touch of elegance and sweetness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Carrots
  • 1.5 lbs Carrots peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds or diagonal pieces
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup Water or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Skillet (10-12 inch)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Vegetable Peeler
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash, peel, and slice the carrots into 1/2-inch thick rounds or diagonal pieces. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size for even cooking.
Caramelizing Process
  1. Heat a large (10-12 inch) skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt.
  2. Add the sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir to coat them in butter. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots begin to soften slightly and develop a faint color.
  3. Sprinkle the light brown sugar, salt, and black pepper over the carrots. Pour in the water (or vegetable broth).
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp.
  5. Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for another 5-8 minutes. The liquid will reduce and thicken, coating the carrots in a glossy, caramelized glaze. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The carrots should be tender but still have a slight bite, coated in a rich, sweet, and savory glaze.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat. Transfer the caramelized carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can be added with the brown sugar. These carrots reheat well in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.