Prepare to transform ordinary carrots into a mouthwatering side dish that will have your family and guests begging for seconds! These slow cooker orange glazed carrots are the ultimate game-changer in vegetable side dishes, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with a tantalizing citrus-honey glaze that melts in your mouth. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you'll create a restaurant-worthy side that looks impressive but requires almost no effort at all.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly, then slice them into uniform diagonal pieces approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Grease the interior of your slow cooker with a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place the sliced carrots into the slow cooker, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the cooking vessel.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, salt, and melted butter until the ingredients are completely combined and form a smooth glaze.
- Pour the orange honey glaze over the carrots, using a spatula or spoon to ensure all carrot pieces are evenly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat setting for 4 hours, allowing the carrots to become tender and absorb the sweet citrus glaze.
- After 4 hours, gently stir the carrots to redistribute the glaze and ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Once carrots are fork-tender and glazed, turn off the slow cooker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish, spooning any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the top for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Carrots: Use fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor. Organic carrots tend to have a sweeter taste.
- Slice Uniformly: Cut carrots into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Diagonal slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick work best.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread carrots evenly in the slow cooker to allow proper heat circulation and consistent glazing.
- Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought juice.
- Watch the Honey: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the honey slightly or use a sugar-free alternative.
- Garnish Option: For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving to add color and a fresh herb note.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These carrots can be prepared in advance and gently reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
