Maple Brown Butter Glazed Carrots

Maple Brown Butter Glazed Carrots are a delectable side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter and the deep sweetness of pure maple syrup. This recipe elevates simple roasted carrots into a gourmet experience, perfect for holiday dinners or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Browning the butter adds a nutty depth that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup and carrots.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of common pantry items.
• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is both impressive and convenient.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or thyme

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Carrots: Place the peeled and cut carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
3. Brown the Butter:
   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Remove the browned butter from heat and stir in the maple syrup, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
   • Pour this mixture over the carrots, tossing to ensure they are evenly coated.
5. Roast the Carrots: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring once halfway through cooking.
6. Serve: Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the butter during the last minute of browning.
• Incorporate Herbs: Fresh thyme or sage can be added to the butter as it browns for a herby aroma.
• Nut Topping: Sprinkle toasted chopped walnuts or pecans over the finished dish for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes, baby carrots can be used. Ensure they are of uniform size for even cooking.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

Honey or brown sugar can be used as alternatives, though each will impart a slightly different flavor.

How do I prevent the butter from burning?

Use medium heat and watch closely as the butter melts and begins to brown. Once you notice a nutty aroma and golden color, remove it from heat immediately.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the carrots and glaze a few hours in advance and reheat before serving.

What main courses pair well with these glazed carrots?

They complement roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or beef, and also pair well with vegetarian mains such as lentil loaf or stuffed squash.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make the dish vegan.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if using organic carrots, a thorough scrub can suffice.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use them sparingly as dried herbs are more potent.

How can I add a spicy kick to this dish?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter and maple syrup mixture for some heat.

Is it necessary to line the baking sheet?

Lining helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, but it’s not mandatory if the sheet is well-greased.

Conclusion

Maple Brown Butter Glazed Carrots are a simple yet sophisticated side dish that brings out the best in this humble vegetable. The combination of sweet maple syrup and nutty browned butter creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

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