Tarragon Glazed Carrots Recipe

In our household, getting everyone excited about vegetables can sometimes be a little… challenging. But let me tell you, this recipe for Tarragon Glazed Carrots is a game-changer. From the moment the aroma of garlic and tarragon started wafting through the kitchen, I knew we were onto something special. And I wasn’t wrong! These weren’t just any carrots; they were tender, sweet, and savory, with a beautiful glaze that made them absolutely irresistible. Even my pickiest eater, who usually approaches vegetables with suspicion, devoured them with gusto, declaring them the “best carrots ever!” Honestly, I have to agree. This simple side dish has elevated our weeknight dinners and even made an appearance at our last family gathering, where it received rave reviews. If you’re looking for a way to make vegetables exciting and flavorful, you absolutely must try these Tarragon Glazed Carrots. Prepare to be amazed at how something so simple can be so incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

This recipe for Tarragon Glazed Carrots is wonderfully straightforward, relying on just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. Let’s break down each component and explore why they are essential and how you can ensure you are using the best for your dish.

• 8 – 10 Carrots (sliced): The star of our show! When it comes to carrots, freshness is key. Look for carrots that are firm, smooth, and vibrantly colored. Avoid carrots that are soft, cracked, or have green spots, as these can indicate they are past their prime.
  • Variety is the Spice of Life (and Carrots!): While standard orange carrots are excellent, don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties. Rainbow carrots, for instance, offer a beautiful mix of colors – purple, yellow, white, and orange – and each can bring a slightly different flavor profile. Purple carrots tend to be a bit sweeter, while yellow carrots can have a milder taste. Using a mix of colors not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also adds depth to the flavor.
  • Slicing for Success: The recipe calls for sliced carrots. The thickness of your slices will impact the cooking time. For even cooking, aim for slices that are roughly the same thickness, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. You can slice them into rounds or on a bias (diagonally) for a more elegant look. If you prefer, you can also use baby carrots for convenience, but keep in mind they might cook a bit faster. Larger carrots will need to be peeled, while thinner carrots, if organic and well-washed, can be used with the peel on for added nutrients and texture.
  • Beyond the Basics: Heirloom Carrots: For a truly special touch, seek out heirloom carrot varieties at farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores. Varieties like ‘Parisian’ (round and small), ‘Chantenay’ (short and stout), or ‘Nantes’ (cylindrical and sweet) can offer unique flavors and textures that elevate this simple dish to gourmet levels.
• 2 tablespoons Dairy-Free Buttery Spread or Vegan Butter: This is what brings richness and helps create that luscious glaze. Choosing the right buttery spread is important, especially if you are following a dairy-free or vegan diet.
  • Dairy-Free Delights: The market is now brimming with excellent dairy-free butter options. Look for spreads made from plant-based oils like coconut, shea, or olive oil blends. These often mimic the creamy texture and rich flavor of traditional butter remarkably well. When selecting a vegan butter, check the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences – some may contain palm oil, while others might be soy-free or gluten-free.
  • The Real Deal (Dairy Butter): If you are not vegan or dairy-free, you can absolutely use traditional dairy butter in this recipe. Unsalted butter is generally recommended in cooking and baking, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter on hand, you may want to reduce the amount of added salt slightly to avoid an overly salty final product.
  • Flavor Infusion: Consider using flavored butter or infusing your own! For an extra layer of flavor, you could use a garlic and herb butter or even brown your butter slightly before adding the carrots for a nutty, caramelized note. Be mindful of the salt content if using pre-flavored butters.
• 1 clove Garlic (minced): Garlic is the aromatic backbone of this recipe, adding a savory depth that perfectly complements the sweetness of the carrots and the herbaceousness of the tarragon.
  • Fresh is Best: Fresh garlic cloves are always preferable for the most vibrant flavor. Choose firm, plump cloves without any soft spots or green sprouts. One medium clove is usually sufficient, but if you are a garlic lover, feel free to add another half clove or a full clove for a bolder garlic punch.
  • Mincing Matters: Mincing garlic finely is crucial to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its flavor throughout the dish without overpowering it. You can use a garlic press, a sharp knife to mince it by hand, or even grate it on a microplane for an ultra-fine texture. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
  • Garlic Alternatives and Enhancements: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use a teaspoon of pre-minced garlic from a jar, but the flavor won’t be quite as fresh. For a milder garlic flavor, you could consider using roasted garlic. Roasting garlic mellows its pungency and brings out a sweet, nutty flavor that would be lovely in this glaze.
• 1 tablespoon Finely Chopped Fresh Tarragon: Tarragon is the star herb in this recipe, lending a unique anise-like flavor that is both sophisticated and comforting. Fresh tarragon is truly the best choice for its bright, aromatic qualities.
  • Fresh vs. Dried: While dried tarragon can be used in a pinch, it lacks the vibrant, delicate flavor of fresh tarragon. If you must use dried, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you would use about 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh. However, for the best results, seek out fresh tarragon.
  • Preparing Fresh Tarragon: Fresh tarragon leaves are delicate and should be handled gently. To chop tarragon, remove the leaves from the stems and then finely chop them with a sharp knife. It’s best to chop herbs just before you need them to preserve their aroma and flavor.
  • Tarragon Substitutes (If Necessary): If you can’t find fresh tarragon, you can try substitutes, although they will alter the flavor profile. Fennel fronds have a similar anise-like note, but are stronger. A combination of chervil and a hint of anise seed can also mimic the flavor of tarragon somewhat. However, for the authentic taste of Tarragon Glazed Carrots, fresh tarragon is highly recommended.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients and balancing the sweetness of the carrots and the richness of the butter.
  • Salt Sensibly: Start with ½ teaspoon of salt and adjust to taste at the end. The type of salt you use can also make a difference. Kosher salt is a good all-purpose salt for cooking, while sea salt can add a slightly briny note. Table salt is more finely ground and saltier by volume, so if using table salt, you might want to start with slightly less.
  • Seasoning in Layers: Remember to taste and season as you go. You can add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for the carrots to season them from the inside out, and then adjust the seasoning again when you add the glaze ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon Pepper: Pepper adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
  • Freshly Ground is Best: Freshly ground black pepper has a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper. Invest in a pepper grinder for the best results. You can also experiment with different types of peppercorns, such as white pepper for a milder heat or pink peppercorns for a fruity note (though black pepper is classic here).
  • Pepper Power: Don’t underestimate the power of pepper! It enhances other flavors and adds a subtle complexity to the dish. If you like a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of pepper slightly or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

By understanding each ingredient and its role, you can ensure you are using the best quality components and achieving the most delicious and flavorful Tarragon Glazed Carrots possible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations within these ingredients to tailor the recipe to your own taste preferences.

Instructions

Making these Tarragon Glazed Carrots is incredibly simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful side dish in a hurry. Let’s walk through each step in detail to ensure perfect results every time.

1. In a large saucepan or skillet, cover carrots with water and bring to boil – keep pot covered.
   • Choosing the Right Cookware: A large saucepan or skillet with a lid is ideal for this recipe. The size should be sufficient to comfortably hold all the sliced carrots in a single layer, or at most, a slightly heaped layer, to ensure even cooking. A skillet with a wider surface area will allow for faster evaporation of the water later, if needed.
   • Water Level is Key: The goal here is to steam-boil the carrots until tender. Cover the carrots with just enough water to submerge them. Too much water will take longer to boil and may dilute the carrot flavor slightly. Using cold water to start is perfectly fine.
   • Bringing to a Boil Quickly: Place the saucepan or skillet over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Covering the pot with a lid is crucial at this stage. The lid traps the steam, which helps the water heat up faster and also cooks the carrots more evenly by creating a moist cooking environment.
   • A Pinch of Salt (Optional but Recommended): While not explicitly mentioned in the ingredients instructions at this point, adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water is a pro-tip for seasoning the carrots from the inside out. This enhances their natural sweetness and flavor. About ¼ teaspoon of salt is sufficient for this step.
2. Reduce heat and continue simmering for about 10 – 15 more minutes or until carrots are tender.
   • Simmering, Not Boiling: Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low or medium to maintain a gentle simmer. A vigorous boil can cause the water to evaporate too quickly and may make the carrots cook unevenly on the bottom. A gentle simmer ensures the carrots cook through evenly without becoming mushy on the outside before the inside is tender.
   • Time is an Estimate: Tenderness is the True Indicator: The 10-15 minute cooking time is an estimate. The actual cooking time will depend on the thickness of your carrot slices and the variety of carrots used. Start checking for tenderness around the 10-minute mark.
   • Checking for Tenderness: The best way to check if the carrots are tender is to pierce them with a fork or the tip of a knife. They should be easily pierced but still have a slight resistance – you want them to be “fork-tender,” not mushy. Overcooked carrots will become soft and lose their texture and flavor. Undercooked carrots will be too firm and crunchy.
   • Listen and Observe: You’ll notice the water level will reduce as the carrots simmer. This is normal. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure the water doesn’t completely evaporate before the carrots are tender. If needed, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to keep the simmering process going, but ideally, the water should mostly be absorbed or evaporated by the time the carrots are cooked.
3. Drain water from the pot.
   • Draining Thoroughly: Once the carrots are fork-tender, it’s crucial to drain all the water from the pot. Excess water will prevent the glaze from properly coating the carrots and can make the final dish watery and less flavorful.
   • Methods for Draining: Carefully pour the carrots and water into a colander placed in the sink to drain. Alternatively, if you are using a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, you can carefully tilt the pan and use the lid to hold back the carrots while pouring out the water. Be extremely cautious when handling hot pots and water to avoid burns.
   • Returning to the Pot (Optional): After draining, you can return the carrots to the same pot in which they were cooked. The residual heat in the pot will help melt the butter and create the glaze. Make sure the pot is relatively dry before adding the butter to prevent splattering.
4. Stir in the remaining ingredients and allow to cook for 2 more minutes or until butter is melted.
   • Order of Ingredients: Add the dairy-free buttery spread (or vegan butter/dairy butter), minced garlic, fresh tarragon, salt, and pepper to the drained carrots in the pot. Adding the butter first allows it to start melting and coat the carrots before the other ingredients are fully incorporated.
   • Gentle Stirring: Stir gently to combine all the ingredients with the carrots, ensuring that the butter melts evenly and coats all the carrot slices. Avoid vigorous stirring, which can break up the tender carrots.
   • Low Heat Glazing: Keep the heat on low or medium-low at this stage. You just want to gently melt the butter and warm through the garlic and tarragon, allowing their flavors to infuse into the glaze and the carrots. Cooking for 2 minutes is usually sufficient to melt the butter and combine the flavors.
   • Aromatic Infusion: As the butter melts and warms with the garlic and tarragon, you’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen. This is a sign that the flavors are developing beautifully. Be careful not to overcook the garlic at this stage, as it can burn quickly once the water is gone. The residual heat from the carrots and the pot should be enough to gently cook the garlic and release its flavor.
   • Taste and Adjust: After 2 minutes, taste one of the glazed carrots. Adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, depending on your preference.
5. Serve Immediately:
   • Best Served Fresh: These Tarragon Glazed Carrots are best enjoyed immediately while they are warm and the glaze is still glistening. The flavors are most vibrant when freshly made.
   • Garnishing (Optional): For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, you can garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of extra fresh tarragon leaves, a grind of fresh black pepper, or a drizzle of good quality olive oil.

By following these detailed instructions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly tender and flavorful Tarragon Glazed Carrots that will impress everyone at your table. The simplicity of the recipe belies the depth of flavor it delivers, making it a truly delightful and versatile side dish.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated Nutrition Information per Serving – Serves 4)

Please note that the following nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and brands.

• Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup to 1 cup of glazed carrots
• Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories
  • This is an estimate based on typical calorie counts for carrots, vegan butter/buttery spread, garlic, and tarragon. Dairy butter would have slightly different calorie and fat content.
• Macronutrients (Approximate):
  • Fat: 8-10 grams (primarily from the buttery spread/vegan butter) – mostly unsaturated fats depending on the type of spread used.
  • Carbohydrates: 12-15 grams (mostly from the natural sugars and fiber in carrots)
    • Fiber: 3-4 grams (carrots are a good source of dietary fiber)
    • Sugar: 6-8 grams (natural sugars from carrots)
  • Protein: 1-2 grams (minimal protein content)
• Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots are rich in Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), Vitamin K, and Potassium. They also contain Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and antioxidants. This dish will provide a good source of these nutrients.

Important Disclaimer: This nutrition information is an estimation for general guidance only. For precise nutritional values, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used. Calorie counts can vary depending on the specific type of dairy-free buttery spread or vegan butter selected, as well as the size and type of carrots. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily made dairy-free and vegan by using appropriate butter substitutes.

Preparation Time

This recipe is praised for its speed and simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • This includes the time needed to wash, peel (if desired), and slice the carrots. It also includes mincing the garlic and chopping the fresh tarragon. The recipe is designed to be quick and efficient in its preparation.
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • This is the total time spent cooking the carrots. It includes the initial boiling and simmering phase (approximately 10-15 minutes to achieve tenderness) and the final glazing phase (about 2 minutes). The cook time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the carrot slices and your stovetop.
• Total Time: 20 minutes
  • From start to finish, you can have these delicious Tarragon Glazed Carrots ready on the table in just about 20 minutes. This makes it an ideal side dish for weeknight meals when time is of the essence, or when you need a quick and impressive vegetable dish for any occasion.

The minimal preparation and short cooking time make this recipe a winner for cooks of all skill levels and for anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful vegetable side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients and techniques can come together to create something truly special in a very short amount of time.

How to Serve Tarragon Glazed Carrots

These Tarragon Glazed Carrots are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide variety of main courses. Their sweet and savory flavor profile makes them a delightful addition to many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Alongside Roasted Meats:
  • Roasted Chicken or Turkey: The subtle sweetness of the carrots and the herbaceous tarragon glaze complement the savory flavors of roasted poultry beautifully. They make a classic and comforting pairing for Sunday dinners or holiday feasts.
  • Roasted Pork Loin or Tenderloin: The richness of pork is balanced perfectly by the bright and fresh flavors of the glazed carrots. Consider serving them with a balsamic-glazed pork loin for a sophisticated meal.
  • Roasted Beef: Whether it’s a roast beef dinner or steak, the glazed carrots offer a vibrant and colorful side that cuts through the richness of the beef and adds a touch of sweetness.
• With Fish and Seafood:
  • Pan-Seared Salmon: The delicate flavor of salmon is enhanced by the tarragon in the glaze. The carrots provide a lovely textural contrast and a pop of color on the plate.
  • Baked Cod or Halibut: These mild white fish are excellent partners for the flavorful carrots. The glaze adds moisture and flavor to the fish, creating a balanced and healthy meal.
  • Grilled Shrimp or Scallops: Toss grilled shrimp or scallops with a bit of lemon juice and serve alongside the glazed carrots for a light and elegant summer meal.
• As Part of a Vegetarian or Vegan Feast:
  • Grain Bowls: Add Tarragon Glazed Carrots to grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or brown rice, along with other roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a tahini dressing for a hearty and nutritious vegetarian meal.
  • Lentil Loaf or Vegetarian Wellington: These glazed carrots make a fantastic side dish for vegetarian main courses like lentil loaf or vegetarian Wellington, adding sweetness and brightness to the plate.
  • Alongside Vegan Protein Sources: Serve with tofu steaks, tempeh, or seitan for a complete and satisfying vegan meal. The carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals and complement the protein sources perfectly.
• For Holiday Gatherings and Special Occasions:
  • Thanksgiving or Christmas Dinner: These glazed carrots are a wonderful addition to holiday menus. They offer a welcome change from heavier, cream-based vegetable dishes and add a touch of freshness to the festive spread.
  • Easter Brunch or Dinner: The vibrant color and fresh flavors of tarragon glazed carrots make them perfect for spring celebrations like Easter.
  • Potlucks and Family Gatherings: This side dish travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make in larger quantities and is sure to be a hit at any potluck or family gathering.
• Simple Weeknight Dinners:
  • Quick Pasta Dishes: Serve as a side to simple pasta dishes with pesto or marinara sauce to add a healthy vegetable component to the meal.
  • Omelets or Frittatas: For a light dinner or brunch, pair with omelets or frittatas. The sweetness of the carrots balances the richness of the eggs.
  • Soup and Salad Combinations: Add a serving of glazed carrots to your meal when you are having soup and salad for a more substantial and balanced dinner.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Tarragon Glazed Carrots are sure to elevate your meal with their delicious flavor, vibrant color, and tender texture. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a go-to side dish for any occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Tarragon Glazed Carrots

To ensure your Tarragon Glazed Carrots are absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Choose Carrots of Uniform Size: Whenever possible, select carrots that are roughly the same size and thickness. This is crucial for even cooking. If you have a mix of larger and smaller carrots, cut the larger ones into thicker slices and the smaller ones into thinner slices to ensure they all cook at the same rate. Uniformly sized pieces will become tender at the same time, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
2. Don’t Overcook the Carrots: The key to delicious glazed carrots is achieving the perfect level of tenderness – fork-tender, not mushy. Overcooked carrots lose their texture, sweetness, and can become waterlogged. Start checking for tenderness around the 10-minute mark of simmering. As soon as they are easily pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite, drain them immediately. Remember, they will continue to soften slightly from the residual heat.
3. Fresh Tarragon is Key, But Don’t Overdo It: Fresh tarragon is the star flavor in this dish, so using fresh is highly recommended for the most vibrant and aromatic results. However, tarragon has a distinct anise-like flavor that can be overpowering if used too generously. Stick to the recommended amount of 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh tarragon for this recipe. If you are unsure about your preference for tarragon, start with a slightly smaller amount and taste as you go, adding more if desired.
4. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in any dish, and these carrots are no exception. Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, but always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. Consider factors like the saltiness of your butter or buttery spread. You might need to add a bit more salt to enhance the sweetness of the carrots and balance the richness of the glaze. A pinch of extra pepper can also add a nice touch of warmth.
5. Make Ahead and Reheat Gently (With Caution): While Tarragon Glazed Carrots are best served fresh, you can prepare them a little ahead of time if needed. You can cook the carrots until tender and drain them up to a few hours in advance. Then, just before serving, prepare the glaze and toss the cooked carrots in it to warm through. However, be cautious when reheating fully glazed carrots, as they can become softer upon reheating. If you need to reheat fully glazed carrots, do so gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a tablespoon of water or broth if needed to prevent them from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy. For best results, prepare the glaze just before serving and toss with freshly cooked or very gently reheated carrots.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to make truly exceptional Tarragon Glazed Carrots that are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Tarragon Glazed Carrots to help you troubleshoot and achieve the best results:

Q1: Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

A: While fresh tarragon is highly recommended for the most vibrant and authentic flavor, you can use dried tarragon in a pinch. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you should use about 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon for every 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon. However, be aware that dried tarragon will have a less bright and nuanced flavor compared to fresh. For the best taste, try to find fresh tarragon.

Q2: I don’t have dairy-free buttery spread or vegan butter. Can I use olive oil or another oil?

A: While you can use olive oil or another cooking oil in place of dairy-free buttery spread or vegan butter, it will significantly change the flavor and texture of the glaze. The buttery spread or vegan butter contributes richness, creaminess, and a distinct flavor that is essential for the glaze. Olive oil will result in a lighter, less creamy glaze, and the overall dish will be less rich. If you need a substitute and don’t have buttery spread, consider using coconut oil for a slightly richer option, or even a small amount of tahini for creaminess, although these will also alter the flavor profile. If you are not vegan, dairy butter is the best substitute for vegan butter in this recipe.

Q3: My glazed carrots are not very flavorful. What did I do wrong?

A: There are several reasons why your glazed carrots might lack flavor:

• Insufficient Seasoning: Make sure you are using enough salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking. Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
• Not Enough Garlic or Tarragon: Ensure you are using the recommended amounts of garlic and tarragon, and that they are fresh and of good quality. If your garlic is old or your tarragon is not fresh, their flavors will be muted.
• Overcooking Carrots: Overcooked carrots can lose some of their natural sweetness and flavor. Be sure not to overcook them – they should be fork-tender but still have a bit of texture.
• Using Dried Tarragon: As mentioned earlier, dried tarragon is less flavorful than fresh. If you used dried tarragon, the flavor might be less pronounced.

Q4: Can I make these glazed carrots ahead of time?

A: While Tarragon Glazed Carrots are best served fresh, you can prepare the carrots ahead of time. You can boil and simmer the carrots until tender, drain them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just before serving, prepare the glaze and toss the pre-cooked carrots in it to warm through. However, fully glazed carrots are best served immediately, as reheating can sometimes make them softer. If you must reheat fully glazed carrots, do so gently over low heat, adding a touch of water or broth if needed.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: While this recipe is specifically for glazed carrots, you could potentially adapt it to include other root vegetables that cook at a similar rate, such as parsnips or small turnips. If you want to add harder vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes, you might need to par-boil them separately for a longer time before adding the carrots to ensure everything is cooked through evenly. However, for the best results and flavor balance, it’s recommended to stick to carrots for this specific recipe, as the sweetness of carrots pairs exceptionally well with tarragon and garlic.

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