Low Sodium Candied carrots are a huge favorite low sodium side dish for me. You will love the buttery honey glaze with the brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. I also add a tiny bit of smoked paprika to give a bit of an edge.
It’s a simple dish, but it sure makes plain old carrots seem special. Whether you’re making these as one of your holiday side dishes or as a side dishe that will complement nearly any entrée. This is a recipe that will fit perfectly into your low sodium meal plan over and over.
| Typical sodium amount per serving | 200-700+ mg |
| Sodium per serving for this recipe | 31 mg |
| Calories per serving | 108 |
For such a ridiculously easy side dish the amount of sodium in most recipes is astounding! Up to 750+ mg per serving in some for a side dish you would expect to be somewhat healthy. All it takes to make it low sodium is a few simple substitutions and leaving any added salt out. I also added in a few other spices to kick it up a notch, but you may choose to use them or not. I listed them as optional, but the base recipe is delicious just “plain” too.
WHAT CARROTS TO USE FOR CANDIED CARROTS
I made these low sodium candied carrots with whole peeled and sliced carrots. But you can use baby carrots also. Whatever you use cut them (if need be) so they are all relatively the same size. You could even use frozen carrots but, check the label for added sodium. Then just boil them until tender and follow the rest of my recipe.
I usually always have whole carrots around because both my dog and I have a whole raw carrot every day.
This is an unbeatable low sodium side dish and pairs superbly with chicken, pork, beef and even fish in any style. I’m not sure what it would not go with just be sure to make a big batch at the holidays!
HOW TO TIPS AND COOK LOW SODIUM
You’ll love the buttery flavor of these carrots that are slightly sweet with both a hint of cinnamon and smokey taste.
I boil and sauté them all in one saucepan. I also add a little bit of cornstarch as it thickens and creates more of a glaze. My dishes without cornstarch were always watery the “glaze” would run all over the plate.
Making Low Sodium Candied Carrots for a quick side dish is super easy to do. Just follow these simple steps:
Peel and cut carrots to relatively the same size. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes. You can also slightly under cook them if you prefer more of a “bite, chew” to your carrot.
Mixed dry ingredients for candied carrots 
Candied carrots simmering in saucepan
While carrots are boiling, mix all the dry ingredients together until well combined and remove any lumps. It mixes much easier than adding one at a time to pan.
When carrots are tender, drain the carrots in strainer and let sit for a moment. Return empty pan to stove and add butter. When butter has melted, add dry ingredients, 2 Tbsp of water and stir together till “wet”.
Immediately add in the drained carrots and stir so they are all well coated in the glaze.
Reducing heat to a simmer, continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often.
EXPERIMENT WITH OTHER SPICES
Some other flavor spice additions to add or try – don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Fresh grated ginger
- Teaspoon or two of pre-minced garlic
- A bit of onion powder
- Garnish with parsley flakes and sesame seeds
[su_box title=”A few of my other great dishes to enjoy!” box_color=”#a92224″]
- Low Sodium Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Savory Honey Baked Low Sodium Chicken Thighs
- Low Sodium Chicken Aborio Rice and Vegetable Medley
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As always, please let me know how you like this recipe in the comments! I get motivated when I hear from you and am interested to learn about how you liked and served your Low Sodium Candied Carrots. And please leave a comment or rating and share any tips you might have.
Low Sodium Candied Carrots
June 30, 2020Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots / baby carrots or chopped whole carrots (about 6 large or 2 1/2 cups chopped carrots)
- 2 ½ Tbsp no salt added butter
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp smokey paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg powder
- 2 Tbsp water
Preparation
- Peel and cut carrots to relatively the same size. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes. You can also slightly under cook them if you prefer more of a “bite, chew” to your carrot.
- While carrots are boiling, mix all the dry ingredients together until well combined and remove any lumps. It mixes much easier than adding one at a time to pan.
- When carrots are tender, drain the carrots in strainer and let sit for a moment. Return empty pan to stove and add butter. When butter has melted, add dry ingredients, 2 Tbsp of water and stir together till “wet”.
- Immediately add in the drained carrots and stir so they are all well coated in the glaze.
- Reducing heat to a simmer, continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often.
Notes
- Garnish with parsley flakes and sesame seeds
I use, own and recommend these products and ingredients used in this recipe.
Amazon Links (Details>>)Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. Please understand that not everyone’s sodium and dietary requirements are the same, therefore some recipes may be higher than you’re allowed.
Details » https://tastyhealthyheartrecipes.com/a-la-cart/appetizers-sides-snacks/low-sodium-candied-carrots/© 2024 Tasty Healthy Heart Recipes
Nutrition Information – The information shown is provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be substituted for a doctor’s or nutritionist’s advice. Please understand that not everyone’s sodium requirements are the same, therefore some recipes may be higher than you’re allowed. Always consult with your doctor for your recommended daily sodium allowance.
