Cooking baby carrots can be a simple and delicious way to prepare a healthy side dish for any meal. Here are a few methods to achieve perfectly cooked baby carrots, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
Boiling and Sauteing in Garlic Butter
For a flavorful and quick method, you can boil and then saute the baby carrots in garlic butter.
Step 1: Boil the Baby Carrots
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt and the baby carrots.
Return the water to a simmer and cook until the carrots are fork tender, which typically takes 4 to 7 minutes depending on their size[1].
Step 2: Drain and Return to Stovetop
Drain the water away or strain the carrots through a colander.
Return the pot of carrots to the stovetop and reduce the heat to medium[1].
Step 3: Saute in Garlic Butter
Add unsalted butter, olive oil, chopped fresh garlic, pepper, and the remaining salt to the pot.
Cook, stirring often, until the garlic is lightly golden brown and toasted. This step should take about 4 to 6 minutes[1].
Step 4: Add Dill and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh dill if desired.
Serve immediately[1].
Roasting in the Oven
Roasting baby carrots brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice caramelized flavor.
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Carrots
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Remove the baby carrots from their bag and dry them off with a paper towel to ensure the oil adheres well[3][5].
Step 2: Toss with Oil, Salt, and Pepper
Place the carrots on a rimmed baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil (or melted butter for an alternative) and sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.
Toss until the carrots are evenly coated and spread them out on the baking sheet[3][5].
Step 3: Roast in the Oven
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork tender. For even cooking, give them a toss halfway through the roasting time[3][5].
Optional Variations
Butter and Parsley: For a simpler roasted version, you can drizzle the carrots with melted butter instead of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with chopped fresh parsley before serving[3].
Size and Type: You can use either baby-cut carrots or whole carrots peeled and cut into similar-sized pieces. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the carrots[1][5].
Most Important Facts About Cooking Baby Carrots
Boiling Time: Baby carrots typically take 4 to 7 minutes to become fork tender when boiled, depending on their size[1].
Roasting Temperature: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for roasting baby carrots[3][5].
Cooking Time for Roasting: Roast baby carrots for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork tender, tossing them halfway through[3][5].
Seasoning: Use salt, pepper, and optional ingredients like garlic, butter, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance flavor[1][3][5].
Versatility: Baby carrots can be cooked using various methods, including boiling, sauteing, and roasting, allowing for different textures and flavors[1][3][5].
By following these steps and tips, you can easily prepare delicious and healthy baby carrots as a side dish for any meal.
