Imagine having a quick, easy, and delicious recipe for Instant Pot carrots that will make the perfect side dish for your holiday meals or weeknight dinners. These carrots are not only packed with nutrients like carotenoids and beta-carotene, but they are also vegetarian, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and made without any added sugar. Plus, they only take 2 minutes to cook in the Instant Pot, making them a convenient option for busy days. Whether you slice them into bite-sized pieces or use baby carrots, you can enhance the flavor by tossing them with ghee, butter, vegan butter, or coconut oil and adding some fresh thyme. And if you have a sweet tooth, you can make them sweeter by drizzling honey or maple syrup over them. The best part? Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days, giving you a delicious and nutritious option for multiple meals.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Instant Pot Carrots recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Carrots
Carrots are the star of this dish, providing a vibrant and sweet flavor. They are also packed with health benefits, as they are a good source of carotenoids and beta-carotene.
Ghee, Butter, Vegan Butter, or Coconut Oil
These fats add richness and depth to the carrots when cooked. You can choose to use ghee, butter, vegan butter, or coconut oil, depending on your dietary preferences.
Fresh Thyme
Fresh thyme adds a delightful herbal note to the carrots, enhancing their natural flavors. It provides a fragrant and earthy taste that pairs well with the sweetness of the carrots.
Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional)
If you have a sweet tooth or want to add a touch of sweetness to the dish, you can include honey or maple syrup. This step is optional, as the carrots already have natural sweetness.
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these scrumptious Instant Pot Carrots.
Step 1: Prep the Carrots
Start by prepping the carrots. If using regular carrots, peel them using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, you can either slice them into bite-sized pieces or use baby carrots, which saves time since they don’t require slicing.
Step 2: Cook the Carrots in the Instant Pot
Next, it’s time to cook the carrots in the Instant Pot. Place the prepared carrots in the Instant Pot and add enough water to cover them. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
Step 3: Release the Pressure
After cooking, it’s essential to release the pressure before opening the Instant Pot. Be cautious when releasing the pressure, as steam can burn. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Instant Pot model to release the pressure safely.
Step 4: Season the Carrots
Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the Instant Pot. Drain any remaining water from the carrots. Add your preferred fat of choice, whether it’s ghee, butter, vegan butter, or coconut oil, to the carrots. Sprinkle in some fresh thyme, adjusting the amount based on your taste preferences. Gently toss the carrots to evenly coat them with the fat and thyme.
Step 5: Optional – Make It Sweeter
If you desire a sweeter flavor, you have the option to add honey or maple syrup to the carrots. Drizzle a small amount on the cooked carrots and toss gently to incorporate the sweetness. This step is entirely subjective, so feel free to omit it if you prefer a savory dish.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Carrots
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Instant Pot Carrots turn out perfect every time:
Use a Vegetable Peeler to Peel the Carrots Before Cooking
To save time and ensure the carrots cook evenly, it’s recommended to peel them before cooking. A vegetable peeler will help you remove the outer layer effortlessly and reveal the vibrant orange flesh.
To Save Time, Use Baby Carrots Instead of Slicing Regular Carrots
If you’re short on time or simply prefer a hassle-free cooking experience, opt for baby carrots. These bite-sized carrots are already conveniently sized and require no slicing.
Be Careful When Releasing the Pressure, as Steam Can Burn
Safety should always be a priority when using an Instant Pot. When releasing the pressure, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take precautions to avoid burns from the hot steam. Allow the Instant Pot to depressurize naturally or use the recommended quick-release method.
Experiment with Different Seasonings Like Rosemary or Garlic Powder
While this recipe calls for fresh thyme, don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. You can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or add a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences.
Storage
If you have any leftover Instant Pot Carrots, here’s how you can properly store and reheat them for future enjoyment:
Allow the Cooked Carrots to Cool Completely Before Storing
Before placing the cooked carrots in storage, make sure they have completely cooled. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. Cooling them on a wire rack or countertop is recommended.
Store in an Airtight Container in the Refrigerator
To maintain freshness, transfer the cooled carrots to an airtight container. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent any odors or bacteria from entering. Place the container in the refrigerator for optimal storage conditions.
Reheat in the Microwave or on the Stovetop Before Serving
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Instant Pot Carrots, reheat them in either the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat them in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the carrots to become mushy.
Now that you have all the information and instructions needed, it’s time to head to your kitchen and whip up this easy and delicious Instant Pot Carrots recipe! Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, these carrots will surely become a crowd favorite. Enjoy the flavors and the health benefits they provide. Bon appétit!
