Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts are a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the earthy flavors of vegetables. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply looking to add a festive touch to a weeknight dinner, these glazed veggies are sure to impress.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (Low) or 2-3 hours (High)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (Low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (High)
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why Make This Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal veggies, packed with flavor and nutrients. The slow cooker allows the vegetables to become tender while soaking up the delicious maple and butter glaze. It’s an effortless side dish that can be prepared ahead of time, freeing you to focus on other aspects of your meal. The combination of sweetness from the maple syrup and savory notes from garlic and thyme creates a harmonious blend that even picky eaters will love. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste!
How to Make Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients:
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Place the carrots and Brussels sprouts in the slow cooker. This combination is not only colorful but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic addition to your table.
Step 2: Mixing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. The rich, sweet aroma of the maple syrup mixed with fragrant herbs will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 3: Cooking
Pour the maple mixture over the vegetables, tossing to coat. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you want them soft but not mushy!
Step 4: Finishing
Stir well before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly, giving your veggies a lovely shine. Enjoy this dish hot for the best flavor and texture!
How to Serve Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
Serve these carrots and Brussels sprouts as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or your favorite vegetarian entrees. They also fit perfectly as an ideal accompaniment for holiday dinners or family feasts. A sprinkle of additional fresh thyme or chopped walnuts on top right before serving adds a nice finishing touch.
How to Store Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave to retain their flavor and texture. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, although the texture may change slightly once thawed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
- For extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the Brussels sprouts briefly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Substitute honey for maple syrup if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a brighter flavor, but dried herbs will work as well.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more salt or spices if desired.
Delicious Variations
- Add nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Include other vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety.
- Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the maple mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator, and then cook it the next day. -
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can adapt this recipe by roasting the vegetables in the oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, tossing them with the glaze halfway through. -
Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Fresh vegetables yield the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen, thaw them before cooking and reduce the cooking time accordingly. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this a great dish for those who are gluten-sensitive. -
How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup, which is already vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts merge simplicity and flavor into a delightful side dish everyone will enjoy. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this recipe makes it easy to bring a touch of sweetness and warmth to your table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy preparing this dish, and happy cooking!
Print
Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with earthy flavors of carrots and Brussels sprouts, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Instructions
- Place the carrots and Brussels sprouts in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- Pour the maple mixture over the vegetables, tossing to coat. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir well before serving and enjoy hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Serve as a side dish alongside meats or vegetarian entrees, and consider adding nuts or herbs for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
