Which component is essential for achieving a glossy sheen and adding richness to the glaze?
Answer
Butter.
Butter is consistently identified as the champion fat element in achieving the desired final appearance for glazed carrots. Its role is multifaceted: it imparts a necessary richness to the overall flavor profile, assists in carrying other flavor compounds throughout the dish, and is fundamentally required for achieving that highly desired glossy sheen. Without sufficient fat incorporated into the glaze structure, the mixture tends to dry out prematurely or separate into crystallized sugar rather than coating the vegetables in a smooth, cohesive manner.

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How to Make Martha Stewart's Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots - YouTube
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