**Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Carrots:** In a medium saucepan, bring enough water to a boil to cover the carrots. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. You still want them to have a slight bite. Drain thoroughly.
2. **Make the Glaze:** In the same saucepan (or a clean one), melt the butter over medium heat.
3. **Add Sweetness and Flavor:** Stir in the brown sugar and salt until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is bubbly. If using, add the cinnamon or nutmeg now.
4. **Glaze the Carrots:** Add the drained carrots to the saucepan with the glaze. Toss gently to coat the carrots evenly in the buttery brown sugar sauce.
5. **Simmer and Serve:** Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened slightly and the carrots are beautifully coated and heated through.
6. **Enjoy:** Serve warm as a delightful side dish to any meal!
**Short Tips**
* For extra flavor, you can roast the carrots in the glaze instead of simmering them. Toss the par-boiled carrots with the melted butter, brown sugar, and salt, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
* Don’t overcook the carrots in the initial boiling stage – you want them tender-crisp, not mushy.
* Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. A little more or less can still yield delicious results.
* A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives at the end can add a touch of color and freshness.
