Braised carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish that can accompany any meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy vegetable recipe or a savory carrot dish, braised carrots are a delicious option.
This recipe yields 8 to 10 servings, making it perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.
To make these easy braised carrots, you will need 3 pounds of medium carrots. Start by cutting the carrots lengthwise, coating them in olive oil, and seasoning them with garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
Then, simmer the carrots until they are tender and serve them hot or at room temperature. Each serving contains approximately 108 calories and is a rich source of dietary fiber.
Key Takeaways:
- Braised carrots are a flavorful and versatile vegetable dish.
- This recipe yields 8 to 10 servings, perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.
- The carrots are coated in olive oil and seasoned with garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
- Simmer the carrots until they are tender and serve them hot or at room temperature.
- Each serving contains approximately 108 calories and is a good source of dietary fiber.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make delicious and flavorful braised carrots, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Medium carrots
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Garlic cloves
- Cumin seed
- Mild red pepper flakes
- Paprika
Start by cutting the medium carrots into your desired size. Then, coat the carrots in a generous amount of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly covered.
This will help enhance the flavor and prevent them from drying out during the braising process.
Next, season the carrots with a sprinkle of salt, garlic cloves (minced or smashed), cumin seed, mild red pepper flakes, and a pinch of paprika. These aromatic spices will add depth and complexity to the dish, infusing the carrots with a delightful flavor profile.
Now, it’s time to bring out the flavors by simmering the carrots with garlic. Place the seasoned carrots into a pot and add enough water to cover them partially. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Let the carrots cook until they become tender, usually around 15-20 minutes. This slow cooking method allows the carrots to soak up the delicious flavors of the spices and garlic.
Once the carrots are cooked to perfection, you can serve them hot or at room temperature.
Transfer the braised carrots to a beautiful oven-proof dish or plate them individually. They make a fantastic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
| Ingredients | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Medium carrots | Cut into desired size |
| Olive oil | Coat carrots evenly |
| Salt | Season to taste |
| Garlic cloves | Mince or smash |
| Cumin seed | Add for flavor |
| Mild red pepper flakes | Enhance spice level |
| Paprika | Give a hint of smokiness |
Braising Method
Braising is a cooking method that transforms ordinary carrots into tender and flavorful delights.
By slowly simmering the carrots in a liquid until they reach the perfect tenderness, the braising method unleashes the full potential of this humble vegetable.
To begin the braising process, start by searing the carrots in a hot pan with a drizzle of olive oil. This step helps to develop a rich caramelization on the surface of the carrots, adding depth and complexity to their flavor.
Once the carrots are beautifully browned, it’s time to season them with a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of pepper, and a handful of your favorite herbs.
This combination of seasonings infuses the carrots with savory undertones, transforming them into a taste sensation.
Next, add liquid to the pan. This could be broth, stock, wine, or a combination of flavors that you prefer. The liquid helps to tenderize the carrots as they simmer, infusing them with moisture and intensifying their natural sweetness.
Place a lid on the pan and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the carrots to slowly cook in the liquid, absorbing all the flavors and becoming irresistibly tender.
It’s during this slow-cooking process that the magic happens, as the carrots soak up the savory essence of the braising liquid.
After patiently waiting for the carrots to reach the desired tenderness, remove them from the pan and serve them hot or at room temperature. Their succulent texture and rich flavor will be sure to delight your taste buds.
Now that you know the secrets of the braising method, it’s time to put them into practice and enjoy the exquisite pleasure of slow-cooked, savory carrots.
Alternative Braised Carrots Recipe
Braised Carrots can be prepared in various ways, and here’s an alternative recipe that offers a quick and flavorful option for a delightful side dish. For this recipe, you’ll need large carrots and a cast-iron pan or large saucepan.
Follow these steps to create this mouthwatering dish:
- Slice the large carrots in half to create manageable pieces.
- Heat up some oil in a cast-iron pan or large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Place the carrot halves in the hot oil, ensuring they make contact with the pan’s surface.
- Allow the carrots to sear until they develop a beautiful caramelized brown color.
- Season the carrots with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs for added flavor.
- Add a touch of honey and a liquid of your choice to the pan. This can be vegetable broth, water, or even orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan.
- Cook the carrots until they become tender and easily pierced with a fork, usually around 10-15 minutes.
This alternative braised carrots recipe yields 2 to 3 servings and is perfect for when you’re short on time but still desire a flavorful and nutritious vegetable side.
These braised carrots are a versatile addition to any meal and pair well with a variety of main dishes, making them a great choice for braised veggies. Enjoy the tender texture and delectable flavors these easy braised carrots bring to your plate!
Maple-Glazed Carrots Recipe
Looking for a sweet and savory twist on braised carrots? Try this mouthwatering maple-glazed carrots recipe! The combination of tender carrots, maple syrup, and fresh herbs creates a delectable side dish that is sure to impress.
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the natural sweetness of carrots alongside robust flavors.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
- Peeled and sliced carrots
- Canola or vegetable oil
- Water
- Maple syrup or sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
To prepare the maple-glazed carrots, follow these simple steps:
- Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add the oil.
- Add the sliced carrots to the pan and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Pour water into the pan until the carrots are partially submerged.
- Add maple syrup or sugar to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid has evaporated and the carrots are tender.
- Remove the pan from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or mint.
This maple-glazed carrots recipe is an excellent addition to any meal. The earthy sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complements the savory flavor of the carrots.
Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite vegetarian dish for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in these maple-glazed carrots! It’s a surefire way to elevate your vegetable recipes and bring a touch of sweetness to your table.
| Servings | Preparation Time | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 10 minutes | 20 minutes |
FAQ
What are braised carrots?
Braised carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish made by cooking carrots in a liquid until tender. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to develop and results in savory and delicious carrots.
How do you make braised carrots?
To make braised carrots, you will need medium carrots, olive oil, salt, garlic cloves, cumin seed, mild red pepper flakes, and paprika.
The carrots are cut and coated in olive oil before being seasoned with spices and simmered with garlic.
The preparation involves boiling the carrots, reducing the liquid, and transferring them to an oven-proof dish. The dish can be served hot or at room temperature.
What is the alternative recipe for braised carrots?
An alternative recipe for braised carrots involves using large carrots and a cast-iron pan or large saucepan. The carrots are sliced in half and seared in hot oil until browned.
They are then seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs before adding honey and liquid. The carrots are cooked on a simmer until tender. This recipe yields 2 to 3 servings and is a quick and flavorful option for braised carrots.
How do you make maple-glazed carrots?
The maple-glazed carrots recipe calls for peeled and sliced carrots, canola or vegetable oil, water, maple syrup or sugar, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley or mint for garnish.
The carrots are cooked in a saucepan with oil, water, and sweetener until the liquid evaporates and the carrots are tender. This recipe is a sweet and savory twist on braised carrots and is a delicious addition to any meal.
What can I serve braised carrots with?
Braised carrots are a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of meals. They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even with vegetarian dishes like tofu stir-fry or lentil curry. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations!
Are braised carrots healthy?
Yes, braised carrots are a healthy side dish. Carrots are low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. By braising them, you can enjoy their natural sweetness and enhance their flavor without adding excessive fat or sugar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, braised carrots are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With their rich flavors and tender texture, they make the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a classic carrot recipe with spices or a sweet and savory variation, there’s a braised carrot recipe out there for everyone.
By experimenting with different seasonings and cooking methods, you can customize your braised carrots to suit your taste buds.
Add a dash of cumin or paprika for a hint of spice, or try glazing them with maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless!
Not only do braised carrots pack a flavorful punch, but they also provide a wealth of nutritional benefits.
Carrots are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy and nourishing choice for any meal.
By incorporating braised carrots into your vegetable recipes, you can elevate the taste and nutritional value of your dishes.
So, the next time you’re looking to add some flavor and color to your plate, don’t forget about the humble carrot. Give braised carrots a try and unlock a world of delicious possibilities!
