A delightful side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with a hint of sweetness and aromatic garlic, perfect for any meal.
Peel and slice the carrots diagonally into even pieces.
Cutting the carrots diagonally increases their surface area, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb more flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning the garlic in the next step.
Add the carrots to the pan and sprinkle with salt. Stir to coat them evenly.
Stirring the carrots ensures they are evenly coated with oil and salt for consistent seasoning.
Cover the pan and cook the carrots over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking with the lid on helps retain moisture, making the carrots tender.
Add the minced garlic, water, sugar, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the glaze.
Cover the pan again and cook for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and glazed.
Check the carrots occasionally to ensure they don't stick to the pan or overcook.
Remove the pan from heat and toss the carrots with chopped parsley.
Adding the parsley at the end preserves its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Serve the glazed carrots warm as a side dish.
Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra freshness.