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French Vichy Carrots Recipe

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French Vichy Carrots are a classic French side dish featuring tender carrots gently cooked in butter and sparkling water, infused with a touch of sugar and fresh parsley. This simple yet elegant recipe delivers a delicate balance of sweetness and richness, making it a perfect accompaniment for a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 pound (450g) carrots

Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup (60ml) club soda, seltzer or mineral water (or tap water with a small pinch of baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prep: Peel the carrots to remove the outer skin and chop them on a diagonal into pieces about ½ inch thick. This shape allows for even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
  2. Cook: In a sauté pan, combine the butter, chopped carrots, club soda (or substitute water with baking soda), and white sugar. Cover the pan and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the carrots cook evenly and do not stick to the pan. This gentle cooking method helps retain the carrots’ natural sweetness and texture. Continue for about 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
  3. Check: Once the carrots are soft and most of the liquid has evaporated, check their tenderness by piercing with a fork. If needed, add a small splash of water to continue cooking until the desired softness is reached.
  4. Season and Serve: Season the cooked carrots with salt and pepper to taste. Toss them with the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and serve immediately as a delightful side dish.

Notes

  • Using club soda or mineral water adds a light effervescence that helps tenderize the carrots during cooking.
  • You can substitute butter with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
  • Ensure to cook the carrots on low heat to prevent burning and maintain their sweet flavor.
  • Fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal note—chopped thyme or chives could also be good alternatives.
  • If the carrots cook too quickly and the liquid evaporates before they are tender, add a splash more water to avoid sticking or burning.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/french-vichy-carrots-recipe/