Orange Apricot-Glazed Carrots with Candied Almonds Recipe

From the moment the aroma of citrus and caramelized sweetness wafted from my oven, I knew this wasn’t just another side dish. Orange Apricot-Glazed Carrots with Candied Almonds quickly became a family favorite in our home. Even my vegetable-skeptic kids were reaching for seconds, captivated by the vibrant colors and the delightful interplay of textures – the tender carrots, the crunchy almonds, and that luscious glaze. It’s a recipe that elevates humble carrots to something truly special, perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to grace a holiday table. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create culinary magic. Let me share with you the secrets to making this recipe a resounding success in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary journey, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using pantry staples and readily available produce to create a dish that tastes far more complex than it is.

For the Orange Apricot Glaze:

• 1/4 cup Apricot Preserves: Choose a good quality preserve with a vibrant apricot flavor. Look for varieties with minimal added sugar if you prefer a less intensely sweet glaze. Seedless apricot jam or fruit butter can also be substituted for a smoother texture.
• 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is key to that bright, citrusy note. Avoid bottled juice as it often lacks the same zest and freshness. One medium orange should yield about 1/4 cup of juice.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity richness to the glaze and helps it emulsify beautifully. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the apricot and orange, creating a more complex and nuanced flavor. White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used as alternatives.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard lends a subtle tang and depth of flavor that enhances the glaze. You can use whole grain mustard for a slightly different texture and flavor, or even a touch of honey mustard for added sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for balancing flavors and enhancing the sweetness. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle warmth and complexity to the glaze.

For the Candied Almonds:

• 1/2 cup Sliced Almonds: Sliced almonds provide a delicate crunch and are readily available. You can also use slivered almonds or whole almonds, roughly chopped. For a nut-free option, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar textural element.
• 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect for creating that classic candied coating. You can also use brown sugar for a slightly caramel-like flavor, or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option, though it will impart a different taste.
• 1 tablespoon Water: Water helps dissolve the sugar and create a syrup for candying the almonds.

For the Roasted Carrots:

• 1 pound Carrots: Choose firm, vibrant carrots. You can use baby carrots for convenience, but for the best flavor and visual appeal, opt for whole carrots and peel and chop them yourself. Consider using rainbow carrots for a stunning presentation.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the carrots roast beautifully and develop a slightly caramelized exterior. Again, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are good substitutes.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning the carrots directly ensures they are flavorful from the inside out.

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delightful dish. The process is straightforward, but following these instructions carefully will ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Apricot Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, fresh orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk the ingredients together until the preserves melt and the glaze is smooth and well combined. Bring the glaze to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it slightly thickens. This simmering process intensifies the flavors and creates a glaze with a beautiful consistency that will cling to the carrots perfectly. Remove from heat and set aside. If you prefer a smoother glaze, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve at this point.

Step 2: Candied the Almonds

While the glaze simmers, prepare the candied almonds. In a medium skillet, combine the sliced almonds, granulated sugar, and water. Place the skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly as the sugar dissolves and begins to melt. The mixture will initially be watery, but as it heats, the water will evaporate, and the sugar will caramelize and coat the almonds. Continue stirring until the almonds are evenly coated in a golden brown, caramelized sugar. This process requires patience, as you need to prevent the sugar from burning. Once the almonds are candied, immediately transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden. Spread them out in a single layer to prevent clumping. Let them cool completely before breaking them into smaller pieces, if desired.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven preheats, prepare the carrots. If using whole carrots, peel them and cut them into 1-inch thick rounds or diagonal slices. If using baby carrots, simply halve or quarter them lengthwise, depending on their size, so they cook evenly. In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure the carrots are evenly coated with oil and seasoning to promote even roasting and enhance their flavor. Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting in a single layer allows for proper air circulation and even caramelization. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized on the edges. The roasting time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your carrots.

Step 4: Glaze the Carrots

Once the carrots are roasted to tender-crisp perfection, remove them from the oven. Pour the prepared orange apricot glaze over the hot roasted carrots. Toss gently to coat the carrots evenly with the luscious glaze. Return the glazed carrots to the oven and roast for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly and adhere beautifully to the carrots. Keep a close eye on them during this final roasting stage to prevent the glaze from burning.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Remove the glazed carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the candied almonds generously over the top of the glazed carrots. The candied almonds add a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the savory and citrusy glaze and tender carrots. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate, based on estimations and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-280 calories

Detailed Breakdown (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 220-280 kcal
• Total Fat: 10-15g
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6-9g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5-7g
  • Sugars: 20-25g (naturally occurring and added sugars)
• Protein: 3-4g
• Vitamin A: High (Carrots are an excellent source)
• Vitamin C: Moderate (From orange juice and apricots)
• Potassium: Moderate
• Calcium: Low
• Iron: Low

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and should be considered as a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. This dish is a good source of Vitamin A and fiber, primarily from the carrots. It also provides healthy fats from olive oil and almonds, and moderate carbohydrates.

Preparation Time

This recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it suitable for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes washing, peeling, and chopping carrots, preparing glaze and candying almonds)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (roasting carrots and glazing)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes

This timeframe allows for efficient preparation and cooking, resulting in a flavorful and impressive side dish in under an hour. The majority of the time is hands-off roasting time, allowing you to focus on other meal components or simply relax while the oven works its magic.

How to Serve

Orange Apricot-Glazed Carrots with Candied Almonds are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Their vibrant color and delicious flavor make them a welcome addition to any meal.

Serving Occasions:

• Holiday Feasts: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or Passover. The vibrant colors and festive flavors complement traditional holiday menus beautifully.
• Weeknight Dinners: Elevates a simple weeknight meal. Pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, fish, or tofu.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing side dish that travels well and is always a hit at potlucks, barbecues, and dinner parties.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Meals: A flavorful and satisfying side dish for vegetarian and vegan main courses. Ensure your apricot preserves and Dijon mustard are vegan if needed.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings:

• Roasted Meats: Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, pork tenderloin, or ham. The sweetness of the glaze and almonds provides a delightful contrast to savory meats.
• Fish and Seafood: Complements baked salmon, grilled cod, or pan-seared scallops. The citrus notes in the glaze pair particularly well with seafood.
• Vegetarian Mains: Excellent with lentil loaf, vegetarian Wellington, or stuffed bell peppers. Adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to vegetarian meals.
• Grain Bowls: Incorporate into grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or brown rice. Adds texture, flavor, and nutrients to bowl meals.
• Salads: Add cooled glazed carrots to salads for a sweet and savory element. Pairs well with salads featuring greens, feta cheese, and vinaigrette dressings.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of orange zest can also enhance the citrus aroma.

Additional Tips for Perfect Glazed Carrots

To ensure your Orange Apricot-Glazed Carrots with Candied Almonds are a resounding success, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose the Right Carrots: Opt for fresh, firm carrots. While baby carrots are convenient, whole carrots often have better flavor and texture when roasted. Rainbow carrots add visual appeal.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Roast the carrots in a single layer to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Overcrowding will lead to steaming rather than roasting. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of apricot preserves or use a low-sugar variety. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tartness.
• Make-Ahead Glaze and Candied Almonds: The orange apricot glaze and candied almonds can be made a day or two in advance and stored separately. Reheat the glaze gently before using. Store candied almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. This saves time on the day of serving.
• Add Spices for Extra Warmth: For a warmer, more complex flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the glaze. These spices complement the orange and apricot beautifully, especially during fall and winter months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making Orange Apricot-Glazed Carrots with Candied Almonds:

Q1: Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

A1: While fresh carrots are highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen carrots in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting. Keep in mind that frozen carrots may release more moisture and might not caramelize as effectively as fresh carrots. You may need to adjust the roasting time.

Q2: Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?

A2: Yes, you can substitute other nuts for almonds in the candied topping. Pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts would all work well. Adjust the cooking time for candying as needed, depending on the type of nut. For a nut-free option, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are excellent alternatives for crunch.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A3: Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan. Ensure that your apricot preserves and Dijon mustard are vegan-friendly (most are, but always check labels). The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.

Q4: How do I store leftover glazed carrots?

A4: Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving. The candied almonds may soften slightly in the refrigerator due to moisture.

Q5: Can I prepare the carrots ahead of time and roast them later?

A5: You can peel and chop the carrots up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to roast them just before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also roast the carrots ahead of time and reheat them gently before glazing and adding the candied almonds.

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