Get ready to transform ordinary carrots into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at your dinner table asking for seconds! Our Pineapple Ginger Glazed Carrots are not just a side dish – they're a flavor explosion that combines the sweet tropical essence of pineapple with the warm, spicy kick of fresh ginger. This recipe turns humble carrots into a show-stopping accompaniment that's both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive dinner parties.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots, then slice them diagonally into roughly 1/4-inch thick pieces to ensure even cooking and an attractive presentation.
- In a large skillet, combine the sliced carrots, pineapple juice, grated fresh ginger, and brown sugar. The liquid should partially cover the carrots.
- Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Cook the carrots for approximately 15-20 minutes, stirring periodically, until the carrots become tender and the liquid reduces to create a glossy, sticky glaze.
- As the liquid reduces, the carrots will caramelize slightly, creating a rich golden color and concentrating the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Taste the carrots and season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference. The salt will help balance the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar.
- Remove from heat and transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish, making sure to scrape any remaining glaze from the pan over the carrots.
- Let the carrots rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set and cool slightly before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Carrots: Select fresh, firm carrots with vibrant color for the best texture and flavor.
- Slice Uniformly: Cut carrots diagonally and aim for consistent 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Control Your Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer to prevent burning and allow the glaze to reduce properly.
- Don't Rush the Reduction: Let the liquid slowly caramelize to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish Option: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or toasted sesame seeds for extra visual appeal and texture.
- Make Ahead Tip: These carrots can be prepared in advance and gently reheated before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
