Cooker Carrots with Honey Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

1. Clean the Carrots:
   • If using baby carrots, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry.
   • If using large carrots, peel and slice them into uniform sticks.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

2. Combine Glaze Ingredients:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, butter, and olive oil.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
   • Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the saucepan.
   • Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker

4. Add Carrots to Slow Cooker:
   • Place the cleaned or sliced carrots in the slow cooker.
5. Pour Glaze Over Carrots:
   • Pour the honey balsamic glaze over the carrots in the slow cooker.
6. Season:
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Stir to coat the carrots evenly with the glaze.

Step 4: Cook the Carrots

7. Slow Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the carrots are tender and the glaze has thickened.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

8. Garnish:
   • Once the carrots are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the carrots hot as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.

Tips for Perfect Slow-Cooker Carrots

• Carrot Size: Uniform carrot pieces ensure even cooking. If using large carrots, cut them into similar-sized sticks for best results.
• Glaze Thickness: The glaze will thicken as it cooks, but if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce it further on the stovetop before adding it to the carrots.
• Flavor Variations: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors continue to develop, making it a great option for meal prep.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Carrots with Honey Balsamic Glaze are a delectable and easy side dish that brings together the natural sweetness of carrots with a flavorful balsamic glaze. The slow cooking process infuses the carrots with rich, tangy-sweet flavors, making them a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress your family and guests. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this delicious carrot dish!