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Easy Bourbon Maple Glazed Carrots in 20 Minutes

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These Quick Bourbon Maple Glazed Carrots are ready in under 20 minutes, with a glossy, sweet, and slightly smoky glaze that transforms ordinary carrots into a crowd-pleasing side dish. Perfect for weeknights or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced on the diagonal (about 1/4-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt or kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the carrots: Peel carrots, trim tops and tips, and slice on a sharp diagonal into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Set aside.
  2. Melt the butter: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, swirling to coat the pan. Do not let it brown.
  3. Add the carrots: Add sliced carrots in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow browning.
  4. Season and stir: Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until carrots soften and develop golden spots. Reduce heat if browning too fast.
  5. Add maple syrup: Pour 2 tablespoons maple syrup over carrots. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until syrup thickens and coats carrots.
  6. Add bourbon: Remove pan from heat briefly, then add 2 tablespoons bourbon. Return to heat. Stir frequently for 2-3 minutes until glaze reduces to a syrupy consistency and carrots are tender (al dente).
  7. Check doneness: Carrots should be tender but still have a slight bite. If too crunchy, add 2 tablespoons water, cover, and steam 1-2 minutes. If mushy, they are overcooked.
  8. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a bourbon you’d drink neat for best flavor. The alcohol cooks off completely. For alcohol-free version, substitute with apple cider or apple juice. For dairy-free, use vegan butter or coconut oil. Cut carrots on a bias for more surface area and better glaze adherence. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if doubling. Watch heat carefully to prevent burning the maple syrup. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon maple glazed carrots, quick side dish, easy carrot recipe, holiday side, weeknight vegetables

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/easy-bourbon-maple-glazed-carrots-in-20-minutes/