Caramel Glazed Carrots (Carottes Glacées)
Elegant Steak Garnish: Sweet & Flavorful Glazed Carrots
Introducing ‘Carottes Glacées,’ an exquisite French-style steak garnish that shines with a beautiful, glossy finish. This dish is a perfect accompaniment to both meat and fish, elevating any meal with its sophisticated touch. This recipe focuses on a simple and quick preparation using carrots, highlighting the natural sweetness of the vegetables enhanced by a luscious glaze of butter and sugar.
Ingredients- 250g fresh carrots (or your preferred vegetables)
- 15g unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Approx. 100ml water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
This recipe will guide you through making ‘Carottes Glacées’ primarily with carrots. If you wish to use a variety of vegetables, feel free to prepare fresh turnips or other root vegetables. For additional inspiration on using different vegetables, refer to the video tutorial.
Step 2
First, prepare your parchment paper. Fold it in half twice to create a cone shape, then trim the edges to fit the size of your pot or pan. When unfolded, this parchment ‘lid’ will help the vegetables cook evenly.
Step 3
Cut the carrots into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them in a single layer in your pot or pan, ensuring they don’t overlap. Add water until it reaches about half the height of the vegetables. Using too much water can dilute the glaze.
Step 4
Cut the unsalted butter into small cubes and dot them evenly over the carrots. Sprinkle the sugar and salt over everything to begin building the sweet and savory flavor profile.
Step 5
Begin cooking over medium-low heat. Once the water starts to simmer, gently stir the ingredients to combine. Cover with the prepared parchment lid and let it braise for about 15 minutes. During this time, lift the lid occasionally to stir the carrots, ensuring they cook evenly and don’t stick or burn.
Step 6
After 15 minutes, remove the parchment lid and continue to cook for about 1 more minute. You’ll notice the butter and sugar have melted into a golden syrup that coats the vegetables, giving them a beautiful sheen. Gently toss the carrots to ensure they are evenly glazed.
Step 7
You can remove the carrots after this extra minute, or continue cooking for a bit longer over slightly higher heat. This allows the syrup to caramelize further, giving the vegetables a subtle, beautiful brown hue. Adjust based on your preference.
Step 8
Slowly cooked this way, the vegetables become wonderfully tender. By omitting pepper, their natural flavors shine through. The small amount of sugar enhances their inherent sweetness, resulting in a rich, delicious glaze. This dish is a stunning side for steak or grilled fish, creating a harmonious culinary experience.
