Easy Glazed Carrots

Ingredients and Weight:

• Carrots: 500 grams (about 4-5 medium carrots)
• Sugar: 3 tablespoons
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Water: 1 cup
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (optional)
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 2 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and wash the carrots, then cut them into thin rounds or long strips.
2. In a saucepan, add water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.
3. Add the carrots and reduce the heat to medium. Let the carrots cook until they become tender but still have a slight crunch.
4. In the meantime, melt the butter in a small bowl or cup.
5. When the carrots are almost done, drain the excess water and return the carrots to the saucepan.
6. Add the melted butter and lemon juice (if using) and stir to coat the carrots evenly.
7. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg (if using) and gently toss to mix.
8. Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot or warm.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 180 calories per serving (assuming no additional oil used during cooking)
• Carbohydrates: Sugar, starch from carrots
• Fat: Butter
• Protein: Carrot fibers, small amount from butter
• Fiber: Good source of fiber from carrots

Dish Characteristics:

• Easy to prepare with common ingredients found in American supermarkets.
• The glazed coating gives the carrots a sweet and rich flavor.
• The optional lemon juice adds a fresh and slightly tart note to the dish.
• Can be served as a side dish or as a healthy snack.

User Comments:

1. "This is a great side dish for any meal! The carrots are so sweet and tender."
2. "Added the lemon juice for a refreshing twist, loved it!"
3. "My family loves this dish, it's a must-make for dinner parties."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be careful not to overcook the carrots, as they should still have a slight crunch when done.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and butter according to your preference for a richer or lighter taste.
• If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the butter with vegetable oil or use vegan butter alternatives.