If you're looking to elevate your dinner table with a burst of flavor and a touch of exotic flair, look no further than these Caramelized Garam Masala Carrots! This delightful Indian-inspired dish combines the natural sweetness of tender carrots with the warm, aromatic spices of garam masala and a hint of honey. In just 30 minutes, you can transform a simple vegetable into a mouthwatering side that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly, then slice them diagonally into uniform pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the ghee or butter, allowing it to melt and become slightly foamy.
- Add the sliced carrots to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to promote proper caramelization.
- Sprinkle the garam masala and salt evenly over the carrots, gently tossing to coat each piece with the spices and fat.
- Cook the carrots for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and allow for even caramelization on all sides.
- When the carrots start to develop golden-brown edges and become tender, drizzle the honey over them, continuing to stir and coat each piece.
- Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the honey to create a glossy, caramelized finish.
- Remove from heat when carrots are deeply golden, tender, and have a slight shine from the caramelized honey.
- Transfer to a serving dish and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a flavorful side dish, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure your carrot slices are about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking and caramelization. This helps them cook through while developing that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When adding the carrots to the skillet, make sure they are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of caramelizing, so consider cooking in batches if necessary.
- Watch the Heat: Keep the heat at medium-high to achieve the perfect caramelization without burning. Adjust the heat as needed, especially if you notice the carrots browning too quickly.
- Honey Timing: Add the honey towards the end of the cooking process to create that glossy finish without burning the sugar. This will ensure your carrots are perfectly caramelized and not overly sweet.
- Garnish for Flavor: For an extra burst of freshness, consider garnishing your dish with chopped cilantro or mint before serving. This adds a vibrant touch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: These caramelized carrots make a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian curries. Pair them with rice or naan for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
