Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole

🥕 Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole 🥕

History:
Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole is a beloved family recipe passed down through generations. It’s a delightful and comforting side dish that has graced our family gatherings for years. Its origins are somewhat hazy, but it’s believed to have been a staple during holiday meals, potlucks, and Sunday dinners in the early 20th century.

Components:

• 2 pounds of fresh carrots
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup of orange juice
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1 cup of mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prep the Carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can also cut them into sticks or coins if you prefer a different shape.

2. Boil the Carrots: Place the sliced carrots in a pot of boiling water. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

4. Add Orange Juice and Water: Pour in the orange juice and water. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Combine Carrots and Glaze: Place the drained carrots in a casserole dish. Pour the glaze over the carrots, ensuring they are evenly coated.

6. Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the carrots to absorb the delicious glaze.

7. Optional Marshmallow Topping: If you want to add a sweet and gooey twist, remove the foil, sprinkle mini marshmallows over the carrots, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The carrots should be tender with a sweet, spiced glaze.

Time Needed:

• Preparing the carrots and glaze: 15-20 minutes
• Baking time: 20-25 minutes (plus 5-10 minutes if adding marshmallows)

So, in total, you can expect to spend around 40-55 minutes in the kitchen to prepare Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole. It’s a delicious and heartwarming dish that’s sure to be a hit at family gatherings or holiday meals. Enjoy! 🥕😋👩‍🍳

Sure, here’s some nutrition and health information for Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, without marshmallows):

• Calories: Approximately 180-200 calories
• Carbohydrates: Around 30-35 grams
• Sugars: About 20-25 grams
• Fat: 7-9 grams
• Fiber: 3-4 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Vitamin A: Provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake due to the carrots.

Health Information:

1. Carrots: Carrots are a fantastic source of vitamin A, providing essential nutrients for maintaining healthy vision and immune function. They’re also rich in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

2. Brown Sugar: While brown sugar is used in the glaze, it’s important to be mindful of added sugars in your diet. Consuming too much added sugar can lead to health issues like obesity and dental problems.

3. Butter: The butter in this recipe adds flavor and richness but should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat content. You can consider using healthier alternatives like olive oil or a butter substitute.

4. Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg not only add flavor but also contain antioxidants, which can have potential health benefits. They may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

5. Orange Juice: Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is important for a strong immune system. However, be aware that fruit juices can be high in natural sugars, so it’s best to consume them in moderation.

6. Marshmallows (optional): Mini marshmallows are a sweet and indulgent addition. While they add a fun touch, they are primarily sugar and should be used sparingly.

Overall, Aunt Mabel’s Carrot Casserole is a tasty side dish, but it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and the added sugar content, especially if you have specific dietary considerations or health goals. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. 🥕🍽️