Imagine discovering a treasured family recipe, steeped in history and handed down through generations. This delightful marinated carrots recipe, lovingly preserved by Aunt El, holds a special place in the heart of the family. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that shines as a condiment or a side, perfect for barbecues or potlucks. What’s more, it’s an economical recipe, with ingredients that are typically on hand. For those watching their calorie intake, substituting Splenda for sugar transforms it into a low-calorie option without sacrificing flavor. So, let’s embark on this culinary journey and recreate Aunt El’s marinated carrots with a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of love.
Marinated Carrots Recipe
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Task | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 5 mins |
| Total Time | 15 mins |
Description
This is a very old recipe handed down to my mother from her aunt, who we called “Aunt El.” She has long since passed away, and I just found the recipe as I was packing up boxes in preparation for a major move. I have no idea how many it serves because a “bunch” of carrots is anybody’s guess. I think of it more as a condiment or something to serve at a barbecue. If Splenda is used for the sugar, it can be a very low-calorie dish. Also, the ingredients are generally on hand, so it’s pretty economical. Thanks, Aunt El! 🥕❤️
Categories and Keywords
Recipe Category: Onions
Keywords: Peppers, Vegetable, Potluck, Spicy, Sweet, Camping, Brunch, < 15 Mins, Refrigerator, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
- 2 bunches of carrots 🥕
- 1 cup sugar (or Splenda for a low-calorie version) 🍬
- 3/4 cup white vinegar 🍶
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard 🌱
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 🌶️
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced 🧅
- 2 green peppers, thinly sliced 🫑
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 179.6 kcal
- Fat: 3.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 300.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1.3 g
- Sugars: 30.9 g
- Protein: 1.3 g
Servings and Yield
- Servings: 8
- Yield: Not applicable (depends on the size of the carrot bunches)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook Carrots: Begin by cooking the carrots until they are crisp-tender in salted water. This usually takes about 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the carrot slices. Ensure not to overcook them as they should retain a slight crunch. Once done, drain them well to remove any excess water. 🥕🔥
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Prepare Marinade: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, white vinegar, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat this mixture over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely and the mixture is well blended and hot. This creates a tangy and slightly sweet marinade that will infuse the carrots with delicious flavors. 🍬🍶🌱🌶️
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Marinate Carrots: Pour the hot marinade over the cooked carrots. This step is crucial as the hot marinade will help the carrots absorb the flavors better. Ensure all the carrot slices are well-coated with the marinade. 🥕💧
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Add Onions and Green Peppers: Add the thinly sliced onions and green peppers to the carrot and marinade mixture. These vegetables add a wonderful crunch and an additional layer of flavor to the dish. 🧅🫑
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Combine Well: Stir everything together until the carrots, onions, and green peppers are evenly mixed and coated with the marinade. Make sure the marinade is distributed well throughout the vegetables. 🥕🧅🫑
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Refrigerate: Transfer the mixture to a container with a lid and refrigerate it for at least 24 to 48 hours. This marination time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deliciously tangy and slightly sweet marinated carrot dish. 🥶
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Serve: After marinating, your marinated carrots are ready to be served. Enjoy them as a condiment, side dish, or a delightful addition to your barbecue spread. They are best served chilled. 🍽️
Tips for Success
- Carrot Selection: Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture. Young carrots are preferable as they tend to be sweeter and more tender.
- Uniform Slicing: Slice the carrots uniformly to ensure even cooking and marination.
- Storage: Store the marinated carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, making them a convenient make-ahead dish.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley to add a fresh, herbal note.
- Citrus Zest: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to the marinade for a citrusy twist.
Final Thoughts
Recreating this marinated carrots recipe is not just about making a delicious dish; it’s about preserving a piece of family history and honoring the memory of Aunt El. Every bite is a testament to the timeless recipes that have been cherished and passed down through generations. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, a potluck, or simply as a side dish, these marinated carrots are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor to your table. Enjoy this culinary gem from the past, and may it continue to be a part of your family’s cherished recipes for years to come. 🥕❤️✨
