Golden Carrots in the Skillet: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Golden Carrots in the Skillet: Easy and Tasty Recipe
Learn how to prepare golden carrots in the skillet with a simple, practical technique that enhances the natural flavor of this versatile vegetable. Using ingredients you probably already have at home, it’s possible to make an elegant and delicious recipe, ideal as a side dish for various everyday meals.
Why Take Care in Preparing Carrots?
Many people believe cooking carrots is basic and without secrets: just boiling in salted water and finishing in butter. However, the way of preparation makes all the difference so the carrot turns out tender, flavorful, and with ideal texture, avoiding that rubbery or tasteless aspect often seen.
In this recipe, the carrot is cooked directly in the skillet with the right amount of water, salt to enhance the natural flavor, butter absorbed during cooking to ensure tenderness and taste, and sugar, which at the end caramelizes giving shine and balanced sweetness. The liquid completely evaporates, concentrating the nutrients in the pan, with no waste.
History and Technique of Glazed Carrots in French Cuisine
The method of cooking carrots in the skillet is part of the foundations of classic French cuisine, where it is known as carottes glacées. This sophisticated technique is taught at renowned schools like Le Cordon Bleu and stands out for its versatility, pairing well with meats, fish, and various dishes.
In France, carrots are often prepared in uniform slices or turned into small balls for a perfect visual finish. However, beauty can also lie in the rustic and natural qualities of the ingredients — a philosophy that values carrots that are more crooked and full of personality.
After much practice of this method in restaurants and professional kitchens, I adopted this preparation as my favorite and cook golden carrots in the skillet at least once a week. The result wins over any palate.
How to Prepare Glazed Carrots in the Skillet: Step by Step
The ingredients are simple, and you can substitute butter with olive oil if you prefer a vegan or lactose-free version. The secret is to cook the carrots in a single layer in the skillet to allow them to caramelize evenly.
- Use medium carrots, peeled or whole if small and fresh.
- Cut the carrots into slices about 1 cm thick, thick sticks, or leave whole, ensuring all pieces are uniform in size to cook evenly.
- Place the carrots, butter (or olive oil), sugar, salt, and enough water to cover the carrots in the skillet.
- Cook over medium heat, with the pan partially covered, for about 15 to 20 minutes until tender, shiny, and caramelized.
- The liquid will evaporate, and the sugar together with the butter forms an irresistible caramelized layer.
To test the doneness, poke a knife into the carrot: it should slide in easily.
Pairing Tips and Varieties for Your Table
Golden carrots in the skillet pair perfectly with simple white rice, buttered green beans, fish fillet with light sauce, roast pork leg, or baby chicken. They also work as an elegant side for parties and special lunches.
Here on our channel Na Cozinha da Helô, you will find two other incredible carrot recipes:
Complete Recipe for Golden Carrots in the Skillet
Servings: 4 | Total time: 40 minutes | Difficulty: Easy
- 4 medium carrots (approximately 600 g)
- 25 g of butter (or olive oil for vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ cups water (about 360 ml)
- Salt to taste (approximately 2 pinches)
Preparation method:
- Peel the carrots and cut into 1 cm slices, or thick sticks. If the carrots are small and very fresh, just wash them well, without peeling, including the soft leaves.
- In a large skillet, arrange the carrots in a single layer, avoiding overlap.
- Add the butter, sugar, salt, and pour enough water to just cover the carrots.
- Cook over medium heat, with the skillet semi-covered, for 15 to 20 minutes until the carrots are tender, shiny, and caramelized.
- When the liquid has completely evaporated, turn off the heat and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Preparing golden carrots in the skillet is a simple technique that guarantees a colorful, nutritious, and flavorful dish, ideal for any occasion. This cooking method preserves nutrients and offers a much tastier and more appealing result than basic preparations. Try this recipe to transform your side dish and further enhance your meals.
To discover other practical and delicious recipes with vegetables, keep browsing the site and enjoy our YouTube channel.
