Quick-Braised Carrots with Butter and Maple Syrup
Cooking can sometimes transform even the simplest of ingredients into something extraordinarily delightful, and this recipe for Quick-Braised Carrots with Butter and Maple Syrup exemplifies that notion perfectly. Derived from the culinary wisdom of Mark Bittman, this dish has revolutionized my perception of cooked carrots, turning them from a humble side into a star on the plate. The harmonious blend of butter and maple syrup creates a luscious glaze that elevates the natural sweetness of the carrots, making this dish an ideal accompaniment to any meal. Let’s delve into this straightforward yet exquisite recipe, guaranteed to win over even the most discerning of palates.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Recipe Category | Vegetable |
| Rating | 5 stars (6 reviews) |
| Keywords | Low Protein, Easy, < 30 Mins |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 15.3 mg |
| Sodium | 120.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14.3 g |
| Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 8.2 g |
| Protein | 1.1 g |
Ingredients
To prepare these delectable Quick-Braised Carrots, you will need the following ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | pound carrots (peeled and cut into sticks) |
| 2 | tablespoons canola oil |
| 1/4 | cup water |
| 1 | tablespoon maple syrup |
| (to taste) | sugar (optional) |
| (to taste) | salt |
| (to taste) | fresh ground black pepper |
| 1 – 2 | tablespoons fresh parsley or mint (for garnish) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Carrots: Begin by placing the peeled and cut carrots into a medium saucepan. Add the canola oil, water, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring the carrots are well-coated in the oil and seasonings.
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Bring to a Boil: Set the saucepan over high heat and allow the mixture to come to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid, which will help to steam the carrots as they cook.
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Adjust the Heat: After five minutes, reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the carrots to simmer, covered, for an additional five minutes, which will help them become tender while retaining their vibrant color and texture.
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Evaporate the Liquid: Uncover the saucepan and increase the heat slightly. Continue to cook the carrots, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the carrots are now cooking in the rich butter and oil. This step is essential as it deepens the flavors and gives the carrots a lovely glaze.
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Final Cooking Stage: Once the liquid has reduced significantly, lower the heat and keep cooking the carrots for another couple of minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender but not mushy. The goal here is to achieve a perfect texture that enhances their natural sweetness.
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Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the carrots and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. This final touch will elevate the dish, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
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Garnish and Serve: To finish, garnish the braised carrots with freshly chopped parsley or mint, depending on your preference. This adds a beautiful touch of color and a hint of freshness that complements the sweet and savory notes of the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful side dish!
Serving Suggestions
These Quick-Braised Carrots with Butter and Maple Syrup make for a delightful accompaniment to various main courses. Whether served alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian dish, they will surely brighten up any plate with their vibrant color and tantalizing flavor. The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs beautifully with savory dishes, creating a perfect balance that your family and friends will appreciate.
Conclusion
This recipe not only highlights the versatility of carrots but also demonstrates how a few simple ingredients can create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, these Quick-Braised Carrots with Butter and Maple Syrup are sure to delight. With their ease of preparation and delightful flavor, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and the sheer joy that comes from indulging in a beautifully cooked vegetable side!
This recipe has been crafted with care, ensuring each step is outlined clearly while maintaining an engaging narrative. The nutritional breakdown and serving suggestions further enhance its practicality, making it perfect for your site, Love With Recipes. If you have any specific requests for additional recipes or adjustments, feel free to let me know!
