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Easy Instant Pot Glazed Carrots: A Simple Recipe for a Delightful Side Dish

Carrots are a staple vegetable in many households, prized for their versatility and natural sweetness. When prepared correctly, they can elevate any meal, turning even the simplest dishes into something special. One of the easiest and most delightful ways to enjoy carrots is by glazing them in an Instant Pot. This method not only saves time but also locks in flavour, ensuring that your carrots come out tender, sweet, and beautifully caramelised. Whether you’re serving a Sunday roast or a quick weekday dinner, these Easy Instant Pot Glazed Carrots will become a firm favourite.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious side dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of baby carrots (or larger carrots, peeled and sliced into even pieces)
• 30g of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (or honey for a healthier option)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional but highly recommended)
• 120ml of vegetable broth or water
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Instant Pot (or a similar electric pressure cooker)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

If you’re using larger carrots, peel them and cut them into uniform pieces, about 2.5 cm long. This ensures even cooking. Baby carrots can be used as they are, making the preparation process quicker.

Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients

Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely before adding the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved, and it becomes a lovely caramelised base.

Step 3: Add the Carrots

Once your mixture is bubbling, add the carrots and toss them in the glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated. The sweet and buttery blend will enhance the carrots’ natural flavour.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Pour the vegetable broth or water into the Instant Pot, taking care to scrape up any caramelised bits from the bottom. This adds even more flavour to the dish. Close the lid and seal the valve. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.

Step 5: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to ‘Vent’—this releases the steam quickly. Be cautious as the steam can be very hot.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the lid and give the carrots a gentle stir. They should be perfectly tender and vibrant in colour, coated in a sticky, sweet glaze. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of colour and freshness.

Tips for Perfection

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices. Adding a hint of ginger or a dash of nutmeg can provide a lovely twist.
• Choose Your Carrots Wisely: While baby carrots are convenient, using fresh, local carrots can greatly enhance the flavour of your dish.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the glazed carrots in advance and reheat them gently before serving. They make for wonderful leftovers!

Conclusion

These Easy Instant Pot Glazed Carrots are not only quick and effortless to prepare but are also packed with flavour, making them an ideal side dish for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delectable accompaniment that your family and friends will adore. So why not try this recipe out at your next gathering? You’ll surely garner compliments for these succulent, beautifully glazed carrots!