Carrots are far from common when teamed with golden raisins, honey, lemon, ginger and almonds. Tabasco pepper sauce effectively balances the sweet taste.

~- ~- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

In a medium saucepan cook the carrots in 1/2 inch of boiling water, covered, over medium heat for 8 minutes. Drain the carrots, then turn into a 1-quart baking dish. Stir in the raisins, butter, honey, lemon juice, ginger and Tabasco sauce. Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes; stir occasionally until the carrots are glazed. Spoon into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with almonds, if desired.

juice, ginger and Tabasco sauce in a 1-1/2-quart microwave-safe casserole. Microwave on high 45 seconds until the butter is melted. Stir to blend. Stir in the carrots. Cover and microwave on high 8 to 10 minutes, stirring after 4 minutes. Remove from the oven.

Sprinkle with almonds, if desired.