Carrots Vichy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carrots Vichy is beautifully minimal yet incredibly flavorful. The butter and sugar work together to create a delicate glaze, allowing the carrots to shine as the star ingredient. It’s a quick and easy side dish, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Naturally gluten-free and easy to make vegan, it adds color, elegance, and a subtle sweetness to any plate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
¾ cup water (or sparkling mineral water for a traditional twist)
2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
1 tablespoon sugar (white or light brown)
½ teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into even ¼-inch rounds for uniform cooking.
2. Simmer: In a wide skillet or saucepan, combine the carrots, water, butter, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook covered: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
4. Reduce the glaze: Remove the lid and continue to cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates and the carrots are coated in a glossy glaze.
5. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use maple syrup or agave instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for subtle spice.
• Swap parsley for thyme or tarragon for an herby twist.
• Use orange or rainbow carrots for visual flair.
• Add a splash of orange juice for a citrus-infused glaze.
• Use vegan butter to make the dish fully plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the glaze, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the carrots may change.

FAQs

What is Vichy water?

Vichy water is naturally carbonated mineral water from Vichy, France. It’s used traditionally for its unique mineral content, but any sparkling water or plain water works well too.

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly, as baby carrots may take a bit longer to soften.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Just substitute the butter with a plant-based version.

Is this dish sweet?

It has a mild, natural sweetness enhanced by the sugar and butter, but it’s not overly sweet.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

Yes, brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor and works well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep the heat medium-low during reduction and stir frequently as the liquid thickens.

Can I add onions or garlic?

This recipe is best kept simple, but a touch of finely minced shallot or garlic could work well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the butter or vegan butter is gluten-free.

What does the glaze taste like?

It’s buttery, lightly sweet, and enhances the carrot’s natural flavor without overpowering it.

What mains pair well with Carrots Vichy?

They complement roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, baked potatoes, or plant-based roasts beautifully.

Conclusion

Carrots Vichy is a timeless and elegant side dish that proves simple ingredients can yield exceptional results. With its silky, sweet glaze and tender texture, this classic preparation transforms everyday carrots into something truly special. Whether you’re serving a casual dinner or a festive meal, this French-inspired dish adds color, flavor, and charm to your table.

Carrots Vichy

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Carrots Vichy is a classic French side dish of sliced carrots simmered in a buttery, slightly sweet glaze until tender and glossy—elegant, simple, and perfect for any meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Simmered
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• ¾ cup water (or sparkling mineral water)
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
• 1 tablespoon sugar (white or light brown)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Peel and slice the carrots into even ¼-inch rounds for uniform cooking.
2. In a wide skillet or saucepan, combine the carrots, water, butter, sugar, and salt.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
4. Remove the lid and continue to cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates and the carrots are coated in a glossy glaze.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use vegan butter to keep the recipe plant-based.
• Maple syrup or agave can replace sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the glaze during reduction.
• Use rainbow carrots for a more colorful presentation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg