Cocoa Glazed Carrots and Onions
Elevate your side dish game with Cocoa Glazed Carrots and Onions, a recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of tender carrots and pearl onions with the unexpected richness of unsweetened cocoa. This unique dish is brought to life with a luxurious glaze made from cocoa powder, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of butter for a silky finish. The balance of sweet and savory flavors is perfect for pairing with roasted meats or hearty grain dishes, making it a versatile addition to your table. Ready in just 40 minutes, this visually stunning dish is also garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, this cocoa-infused side dish is sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots
- 12 pieces pearl onions
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Peel the carrots and cut them into uniform sticks or rounds, about 2 inches in length or 1/2 inch thick. Set aside.
Blanch the pearl onions in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. Gently peel off their outer skins and trim the root ends.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and combined.
Add the carrots and pearl onions to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil-butter mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Slowly stir in the water until the mixture forms a smooth glaze.
Pour the cocoa glaze over the carrots and onions, stirring to coat each piece evenly. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and the glaze has thickened slightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to your preference.
Transfer the cocoa-glazed carrots and onions to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for an optional garnish.
Serve warm as a side dish to complement roasted meats, grain dishes, or other flavorful main courses.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
515 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 38.8 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.9 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 2548 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.2 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.1 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.0 g | ||
| Protein | 5.4 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 131 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 605 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
