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Spiced Glazed Carrots with Sherry & Citrus

This elegant vegetarian side dish brings a sophisticated twist to the classic glazed carrot. By simmering tender young carrots with aromatic cloves, bay, and peppercorns, you create a deep base of flavour that perfectly complements their natural sweetness. The addition of clementine juice and Sherry provides a bright, acidic lift, resulting in a glossy glaze that makes this dish a standout addition to any festive spread or weekend roast dinner.

These spiced glazed carrots are particularly practical for hosting, as they can be prepared up to four hours in advance and gently reheated just before serving. The fresh tarragon and citrus zest added at the final moment provide a fragrant, herbal finish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or nut roasts. It is a simple yet refined way to elevate humble root vegetables into a vibrant, seasonal highlight.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spiced Glazed Carrots with Sherry & Citrus

  • 2 bunches of thin carrots (900g ), cut into 1" pieces (about 900g )

  • 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more for seasoning

  • 12 whole black peppercorns

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 tablespoon fresh clementine juice or orange juice

  • 2 tablespoons Sherry or sweet vermouth, divided

  • 2 pinches ground cloves

  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly grated clementine zest or orange zest

Bring carrots, butter, 1/2 teaspoons salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and 120ml water to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, 7-8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer carrots to a medium bowl.

Add clementine juice, 1 tablespoon Sherry, and ground cloves to skillet and cook until glaze forms, 7-8 minutes. Stir in carrots and remaining 1 tablespoon Sherry. Season carrots to taste with salt. DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm over medium heat before continuing, adding water by teaspoonfuls if dry.

Transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with tarragon and clementine zest.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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