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Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

This vibrant dish of pan-roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts offers a fresh, savoury take on classic winter vegetables. By searing the vegetables in a heavy frying pan before gently steaming them, you achieve a beautiful golden colour and a tender texture without losing their natural crunch. The addition of cider vinegar at the end provides a bright, acidic lift that cuts through the richness of the butter, making it a sophisticated accompaniment to any main course.

As a versatile vegan-friendly side dish, it is particularly well-suited for a traditional Sunday roast or as a lighter alternative for the Christmas spread. The combination of sweet carrots and earthy sprouts creates a balanced flavour profile that appeals to everyone at the table. For a strictly vegan version, simply swap the unsalted butter for a quality plant-based alternative or a splash of olive oil.

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Ingredients for Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

  • 2 tablespoons chopped shallot (from 1 medium)

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

  • 450g carrots, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick pieces

  • 450g Brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise

  • 80ml water

  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

How to make Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

Cook shallot in 2 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, 1 to 2 minutes. Add carrots, Brussels sprouts, 3/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoons pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to brown, 3 to 4 minutes.

Add water and cover skillet, then cook over medium-high heat until vegetables are tender, 5 to 8 minutes. Stir in vinegar, remaining tablespoon butter, and salt and pepper to taste.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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