Best Whiskey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Sweet and Savory

Discover the best whiskey glazed carrots recipe, featuring sweet and savory carrots caramelized with whiskey. Perfect as a side dish for any meal!

The carrot is a root vegetable, typically orange in color, though purple, black, red, white, and yellow cultivars exist, all of which are domesticated forms of the wild carrot, Daucus carota, native to Europe and Southwestern Asia.

The plant probably originated in Persia and was originally cultivated for its leaves and seeds. The most commonly eaten part of the plant is the taproot, although the stems and leaves are also eaten.

Carrot

The domestic carrot has been selectively bred for its greatly enlarged, more palatable, less woody-textured taproot.

The carrot is a biennial plant in the umbellifer family, Apiaceae. At first, it grows a rosette of leaves while building up the enlarged taproot. Fast-growing cultivars mature within three months (90 days) of sowing the seed, while slower-maturing cultivars need a month longer (120 days). The roots contain high quantities of alpha- and beta-carotene, and are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin B6.

What are the benefits of eating carrots?

The fiber in carrots can help keep blood sugar levels under control. And they're loaded with vitamin A and beta-carotene, which there's evidence to suggest can lower your diabetes risk. They can strengthen your bones. Carrots have calcium and vitamin K, both of which are important for bone health.

Is it OK to eat carrots every day?

Eating carrots in moderation is good for your health. Eating carrots in excess, however, can cause a condition called carotenemia. This refers to yellowish discoloration of the skin because of the deposition of a substance called beta-carotene that is present in carrots.

What kind of whiskey is good for cooking?

For cooking, a regular bourbon such as Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, Old Crow, or Heaven Hill is fine.

Wath the video recipe

Whiskey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Serving: 4-6 people

Introduction

Whiskey Glazed Carrots are a sweet and savory side dish, perfect for any meal. The whiskey adds a rich depth of flavor to the caramelized carrots.

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp butter

  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into equal-sized pieces

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup whiskey (bourbon works great)

  • 1/3 cup brown sugar

  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme leaves (optional for garnish)

Directions

  1. Melt Butter: In a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Cook Carrots: Add carrots, season with salt, and cook until they begin to brown, about 5-6 minutes.

  3. Add Whiskey: Reduce heat to medium-low, pour in whiskey, and cook until evaporated, about 2 minutes.

  4. Add Sugar: Sprinkle in brown sugar, cook until carrots are tender, about 5 minutes.

  5. Thicken Glaze: Raise heat to medium-high to thicken the glaze, about 15-30 seconds.

  6. Season and Serve: Season with cayenne and black pepper, garnish with thyme leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of whiskey should I use? Bourbon works great, but any whiskey you prefer will do.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I use baby carrots? Yes, adjust the cooking time as needed.

4. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze the glazed carrots? Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture.

6. Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar? Yes, maple syrup can be a delicious substitute.

7. How do I prevent the carrots from burning? Cook on medium heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

8. What can I serve with whiskey glazed carrots? They pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish.

9. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, parsnips or sweet potatoes can be added for variety.

10. How do I make the dish less sweet? Reduce the amount of brown sugar to your taste.

11. Can I omit the cayenne pepper? Yes, if you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the cayenne pepper.

12. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh? Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme as a substitute.

13. Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the added salt to taste.

14. Can I add garlic to this recipe? Yes, minced garlic can add extra flavor.

15. How do I thicken the glaze? Raise the heat to medium-high and let it simmer until the desired thickness is reached.

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