These honey glazed carrots are simply delightful! They’re sweet, tender, and have a lovely shiny finish that makes them look as good as they taste.
Honestly, who knew carrots could be this tasty? I love serving them alongside dinner—it’s like having a tasty little treat with my veggies! Kids love them too! 🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for their bite-sized convenience. You can also use whole carrots; just peel and cut them into sticks. For an exciting twist, try using rainbow carrots for added color!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to because it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter. Both work wonderfully!
Honey: This is crucial for sweetness. If you’re vegan, use maple syrup or agave syrup instead. Each will give a unique flavor while keeping the dish sweet.
Brown Sugar: While optional, it adds extra caramelization. If you’re watching sugar, you can skip it altogether or use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar.
Garlic: It’s optional, but I think it complements the sweetness nicely! If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out. You can also use garlic powder for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Glaze on My Carrots?
Getting that perfect glaze requires a few simple steps. The key is to let the mixture thicken without burning it. Here’s how:
- Start by melting butter over medium heat, then add garlic if using.
- Cook the carrots until they soften slightly—about 5-7 minutes works well. Stir regularly.
- Once you’re ready to glaze, add honey and any sugar just as the carrots are nearly tender. This is where the magic happens!
- Keep cooking for another 5-7 minutes. Toss the carrots occasionally to coat them evenly. The glaze should become sticky and shiny.
Watch closely—burnt carrots are not what we want! You’ll know it’s done when they’re tender and beautifully coated. Enjoy! 🌿🥕
How to Make Delicious Honey Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 pound baby carrots (or peeled whole carrots)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chopped herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes on prep, and cooking will take an additional 10-15 minutes. It’s quick and easy—perfect for a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by rinsing the baby carrots under cold water. If you’re using larger carrots, peel them and cut them into evenly sized sticks. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, turn the heat to medium and melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Keep an eye on it until it starts to foam but don’t let it brown.
3. Add Garlic:
If you’re using minced garlic, go ahead and add it to the skillet now. SautĂ© the garlic for about 30 seconds until it gets fragrant—just make sure you don’t burn it!
4. Cook the Carrots:
Add the carrots to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the melted butter and garlic. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and get a nice, light brown color.
5. Sweeten the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add the honey, optional brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine everything. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, making sure to turn the carrots so they get evenly glazed and caramelized.
6. Check for Tenderness:
When the carrots are tender but still have a slight crunch and a glossy, sticky glaze, remove them from the heat. They should look absolutely delicious!
7. Serve & Garnish:
Transfer the honey glazed carrots to a lovely serving dish. Finish it off by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or your favorite herbs. Serve warm and enjoy!
Now you have sweet, tender, and beautifully glazed honey carrots that are perfect for your next meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While baby carrots are convenient, you can also use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking. For a colorful twist, try using rainbow carrots!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
No problem! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter or olive oil, and use maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare These Carrots Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook the carrots and let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to refresh the glaze before serving.
What Should I Serve Honey Glazed Carrots With?
Honey glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, like chicken or pork, and are a lovely side with grain dishes such as rice or quinoa. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
