These glazed carrots are sweet, shiny, and super easy to make! They’re cooked just right and have a gentle honey flavor that shines through each bite.
Whenever I make them, my family can’t resist adding them to the dinner plate. They truly are a tasty veggie side that makes eating your greens a little more fun! 🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are perfect for glazing due to their natural sweetness. If you can’t find baby carrots, you can use whole carrots, just cut them into similar-sized pieces. For a more colorful dish, try using rainbow carrots!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for letting you control the flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or vegan butter instead. They give a nice depth, too!
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works just as well. For those with a sweeter tooth, brown sugar is a nice alternative too!
Thyme: While fresh thyme is wonderful, you can also use dried thyme in a pinch—just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated. A few sprigs of parsley can add a nice touch as well.
How Can I Get My Carrots Perfectly Glazed?
Getting that shiny glaze on your carrots is all about controlling the cooking process. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Start by cooking the carrots over medium heat; this helps them soften slowly. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- When the liquid simmers, cover the pan. This steams the carrots and makes them tender—usually around 10 minutes will do!
- After that, remove the lid and crank up the heat. This allows the liquid to evaporate and concentrate into a glaze. Keep stirring to keep things from sticking!
- Don’t forget to taste! Adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is key to making the flavors pop!
With these tips and key ingredients, you will create glazed carrots that are not only flavorful but also a delightful addition to your meals! 🥕
How to Make Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled whole carrots, trimmed)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 1/2 cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 15 minutes cooking. In no time, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by washing the baby carrots. If you’re using whole carrots, peel them and trim off the ends. If using baby carrots, no need to cut them! Just place the carrots in a large skillet or sauté pan.
2. Add Ingredients for Cooking:
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter, honey (or brown sugar), water (or vegetable broth), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together to coat the carrots.
3. Bring to a Simmer:
Now, cook over medium heat while stirring occasionally. You want the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This will help soften the carrots.
4. Cook and Steam:
Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the carrots cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are just tender when you poke them with a fork.
5. Create the Glaze:
After the carrots are tender, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Stir the carrots frequently as the remaining liquid reduces into a lovely, shiny glaze that coats them. This should take about 5 more minutes.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your glazed carrots. If they need a little more salt or pepper, go ahead and adjust to your liking. Remember, this is all about your taste!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. If you like, add some fresh thyme sprigs on top for a lovely garnish. Serve these warm as a tasty and elegant side dish, and enjoy!
This recipe yields tender carrots with a glossy, sweet glaze and aromatic thyme notes, making them perfect for any meal. Enjoy your delicious glazed carrots! 🥕
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Drain well before using to ensure they don’t add too much moisture to the glaze.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you want to replace honey, maple syrup works beautifully for a vegan option. You can also use agave syrup or brown sugar for a similar sweetness. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference!
How to Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to help rehydrate them, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make Glazed Carrots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare glazed carrots a few hours ahead and keep them warm in a covered dish. Just be mindful that the glaze might thicken as it cools. If needed, add a splash of water when reheating to bring back the glossy texture!