Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Prop Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller; Food Styling: William Smith
These Cider Glazed Carrots with Walnuts were developed as part of a Christmas Eve dinner menu, but they would be just as delicious on a weeknight with roasted chicken or pork chops. Made with a handful of pantry ingredients—light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, butter, dry mustard, and paprika—the glaze comes together easily and adds a tangy punch of flavor to the sweet carrots. And a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and toasted walnuts adds texture and herbaciousness. Our Test Kitchen called these Cider-Glazed Carrots “nicely balanced sweet, tart and nutty flavors. A great classic for the holidays.” Make this side dish look even more special occasion-worthy by using rainbow carrots instead of orange carrots—rainbow carrots are now available at many grocery stores. You can also swap out the walnuts for pecans if you prefer. Pecans will add a little extra sweetness. Be careful not to over-reduce the glaze; it should have a thin, syrupy texture. Around the holidays, side dishes are just as important (if not more important) than the main dish. If your kitchen is busy and stocked for the holidays, this easy side dish won’t add any stress to your schedule. With only 15 minutes of active time, these carrots are the quickest way to get a delicious, homemade side dish on your holiday table.
How to Make It
Step 1
Place carrots in a large saucepan with water to cover, and bring to a boil over high. Reduce heat to low, and simmer until tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
Combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, butter, salt, dry mustard, and paprika in a large nonstick skillet over low; cook, stirring often, until butter melts. Increase heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; add carrots. Cook, stirring constantly, until carrots are glazed and sauce is syrupy, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in walnuts; sprinkle with chopped parsley, and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
