Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

1. Peel and Slice the Carrots:

Start by peeling the carrots. If the carrots are particularly thick, you may want to cut them in half lengthwise. Then, slice them into 2-3 inch long pieces or cut them into coins if you prefer smaller pieces. The key is to ensure that all the pieces are about the same size so they cook evenly.

2. Blanch the Carrots (Optional):

To ensure the carrots are tender without losing their vibrant color, you can blanch them before glazing. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the carrot pieces for 3-4 minutes until they are just slightly tender but still firm. Drain the carrots and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is optional but helps speed up the final cooking time.

Step 2: Make the Maple Glaze

1. Melt the Butter:

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. You want the butter to melt but not burn, so keep an eye on it.

2. Add the Maple Syrup and Brown Sugar:

Once the butter is melted, add 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved and everything is combined.

3. Season with Spices:

Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon (if using) for a warm, spiced flavor. Season the glaze with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of citrusy brightness, you can also add 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest at this stage. Stir to combine.

4. Add the Water:

Pour 1/4 cup of water into the skillet. The water will help the carrots cook through while the glaze thickens and coats the carrots.

Step 3: Cook the Carrots in the Glaze

1. Add the Carrots to the Skillet:

Place the prepared carrots in the skillet with the glaze. Toss the carrots to coat them evenly in the maple syrup mixture.

2. Simmer the Carrots:

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the carrots simmer in the glaze for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender but still have a slight bite. Stir the carrots occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and the glaze doesn’t burn.

3. Check for Doneness:

To check if the carrots are done, pierce them with a fork or the tip of a knife. They should be tender but not mushy. If the glaze reduces too quickly, you can add an extra splash of water to the pan.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish the Carrots

1. Glaze the Carrots:

Once the carrots are fully cooked, increase the heat slightly to allow the glaze to thicken and coat the carrots. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the glaze, as it can burn quickly.

2. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the carrots with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. If desired, you can also top the carrots with toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and crunch.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Maple Glazed Carrots

Your Maple Glazed Carrots are now ready to serve! This sweet and savory side dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses and is sure to be a hit at any meal.