Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Name: Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g carrots (peeled and cut into sticks); 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp butter; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Deliciously sweet and tangy balsamic glazed carrots perfect as a side dish.

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Balsamic glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that brings sweetness and tanginess to your table. This dish pairs the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich, complex flavours of balsamic vinegar, resulting in a luscious and glossy finish. Perfect for holiday feasts or everyday dinners, these carrots complement a wide range of main courses. With their vibrant colour and enticing aroma, they are sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Instructions

Prepare the carrots

Peel the carrots and cut them into uniform sticks about 5 cm (2 inches) long.

Pro tip: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.

Blanch the carrots

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrot sticks and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Blanching helps the carrots retain their vibrant colour.

Prepare the glaze

In a large pan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, butter, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth glaze.

Glaze the carrots

Add the blanched carrots to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots.

Pro tip: Stir gently to avoid breaking the carrot sticks.

Finish the dish

Allow the carrots to cook until they are glistening and tender. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Serve

Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving bowl and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for added colour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Choose young, tender carrots for the best flavour and texture.
Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.
For a glossy finish, don't skip the final glazing step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

You can substitute balsamic vinegar with a mix of red wine vinegar and a small amount of honey or maple syrup to mimic the sweetness.

How do I know when the carrots are done?

The carrots are done when they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite, which should take about 5-7 minutes of simmering in the glaze.

Can I make balsamic glazed carrots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze them in advance. Reheat them gently in a pan over low heat before serving.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough pan to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent even glazing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these balsamic glazed carrots alongside roasted meats like chicken or beef, or pair them with a hearty vegetarian main. They can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain their glossy glaze.

Nutrition per serving

180

Calories

Protein

11g

Fat

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