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Perfectly Sweet and Savoury Glazed Carrots in the Air Fryer: An Easy Side Dish

When it comes to preparing delightful side dishes that don’t compromise on flavour or nutrition, glazed carrots stand out as a perennial favourite. Their vibrant colour and natural sweetness make them a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive feast. This recipe for perfectly sweet and savoury glazed carrots, cooked in an air fryer, elevates the classic dish to new heights while keeping the preparation swift and effortless.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionised cooking by offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Using superheated air, it achieves that satisfying crispiness without excessive oil. Moreover, air fryers often provide a more concentrated flavour profile, making them ideal for recipes like glazed carrots. With the air fryer, you can easily achieve tender, caramelised, and flavour-packed carrots in a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this simple yet scrumptious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 500g baby or chopped carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots

If you’re using baby carrots, there’s little prep involved other than rinsing them. If you’re working with larger carrots, peel and cut them into even-sized pieces, around 5–7 cm in length, to ensure they cook uniformly in the air fryer.

2. Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it’s well combined. This glaze will not only give your carrots a delicious flavour but will also help achieve that lovely glossy finish.

3. Toss the Carrots

Add the prepared carrots to the bowl with the glaze. Using your hands or a spatula, toss the carrots until they are evenly coated in the sweet and savoury mixture.

4. Air Fry the Carrots

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Once preheated, place the glazed carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can hinder even cooking.

Cook the carrots for approximately 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your carrots and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them as they cook. You’ll know they’re ready when they are tender and have developed a slight caramelisation.

5. Finish and Serve

Once the carrots are perfectly cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for an added touch of colour and freshness. Serve these sweet and savoury glazed carrots warm alongside your favourite main dishes. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, vegetarian options, or even as part of a wholesome grain bowl.

Conclusion

Glazed carrots are an alluring side dish that can easily transform a simple meal into something special. This air fryer recipe is quick, easy, and delicious, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. With their glossy finish and enticing aroma, these perfectly sweet and savoury glazed carrots will surely become a family favourite. Embrace simplicity and flavour, and enjoy the delightful crunch and sweetness they bring to your dining table. Happy cooking!

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