Alton’s Glazed Carrots

🥕 Alton’s Glazed Carrots 🥕

What is it?
Alton’s Glazed Carrots is a delicious side dish that features tender, sweet carrots coated in a glossy, caramelized glaze. This dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich, buttery glaze, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

History:
The exact origin of glazed carrots is unclear, but glazed vegetable dishes have a long history in European and American cuisine. The process of glazing involves cooking vegetables in a sugar and butter mixture until they develop a shiny, sweet coating. Alton Brown, a well-known American chef and TV personality, likely popularized this particular version of glazed carrots through his cooking shows and cookbooks.

Components:

• Carrots: The star of the dish, you’ll need fresh carrots, preferably whole, which you’ll peel and slice into uniform pieces.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create the caramelized glaze.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the dish to taste.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor and color.

Steps to Prepare Alton’s Glazed Carrots:

1. Prepare the Carrots: Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into uniform rounds or sticks. This ensures even cooking.

2. Cook the Carrots: In a skillet or saucepan, melt a generous amount of butter over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté them for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.

3. Make the Glaze: Sprinkle brown sugar over the carrots and stir to coat them evenly. Continue to cook, allowing the sugar to caramelize and create a glossy glaze. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Season: Season the glazed carrots with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish, and if desired, sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Preparation Time:
Alton’s Glazed Carrots can be prepared in approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a quick and delightful side dish for any meal.

These sweet and buttery glazed carrots are a delightful addition to your dinner table, offering a perfect blend of flavors and a touch of elegance. Enjoy! 🥕✨

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alton’s Glazed Carrots:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 1g
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 3%
• Iron: 2%
• Potassium: 10%

Health Information:

1. Rich in Vitamins: Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, providing a substantial amount of this essential nutrient. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function.

2. Moderate in Calories: Alton’s Glazed Carrots is a relatively low-calorie side dish, making it a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

3. High Sugar Content: The glaze in this recipe contains brown sugar, which contributes to the dish’s sweetness. While this enhances the flavor, it’s important to consume sweetened dishes like this in moderation, especially for individuals with dietary restrictions on sugar.

4. Low in Protein: This dish is low in protein, so it’s a good idea to pair it with a protein source like grilled chicken or tofu for a well-balanced meal.

5. Fiber Content: Carrots contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help you feel full and satisfied.

6. Limit Butter: While butter adds richness and flavor to the dish, it also contributes to its fat content. Consider using a moderate amount of butter or using a healthier fat alternative if desired.

Remember that the nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It’s always a good practice to adjust the recipe to meet your dietary needs and preferences.