These honey glazed carrots are a sweet and tasty side dish that everyone will love! The carrots get cooked until tender, then are coated in a sticky honey sauce. Yum!
If you’re like me, you can’t resist those shiny, sweet bites! They’re quick to make, and I often add them to every dinner just to sneak in some veggies with a smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are sweet and tender, making them perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, regular carrots work too; just peel and cut them into sticks. I often use rainbow carrots for added color!
Honey: The star ingredient! It adds sweetness and a beautiful glaze. If you have dietary restrictions, maple syrup makes a great alternative, giving a different yet delicious flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter if needed.
Garlic: While optional, garlic adds depth to the flavor. If you’re not a garlic fan, feel free to skip it, or try a sprinkle of garlic powder instead for a milder taste.
How Can You Get Carrots Really Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the carrots just right is crucial for that tender bite! Make sure to cut them evenly, as uniform pieces help them cook at the same rate. Here’s how to do this effectively:
- Start by sautéing them in butter to caramelize a bit and bring out their sweetness. Stir frequently for even cooking.
- After they start to soften, add the honey and seasonings. The glaze will form as you continue to cook, so don’t rush!
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. You want them perfectly tender, so check frequently. They should take about 10-12 minutes total.
Allow them to sit for a minute after cooking to let the glaze thicken a bit more before serving. Enjoy those delicious, sweet bites!
Honey Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by rinsing your baby carrots under cold water. If you’re using regular carrots, peel them and cut them into sticks about the same size so they cook evenly. Uniform pieces are key for even cooking!
2. Sauté the Garlic and Butter:
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then add in the minced garlic if you’re using it. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Carrots:
Add the carrots to the skillet and toss them around to coat with the buttery garlic mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the carrots to start softening and getting a little bit of color on them.
4. Add the Honey and Seasonings:
Once the carrots have softened slightly, drizzle the honey over them. Sprinkle on the salt and pepper, and give everything a good stir to ensure the carrots are coated with the sticky honey glaze. It should smell amazing!
5. Glaze the Carrots:
Keep cooking the carrots for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. You want them to be fully tender and rich with the honey glaze, which gives them that shiny and flavorful appearance.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re perfectly glazed and tender, remove them from heat. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely pop of color and flavor. It’s ready to be served!
7. Enjoy!
These honey glazed carrots make a delightful side dish for any meal. Enjoy the sweetness and the compliments!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, which you can do by leaving them in the fridge overnight or using the microwave. Adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen carrots may release more moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Honey Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. The flavors will still be delicious!
How Can I Make Carrots More Flavorful?
If you’d like to amp up the flavors, consider adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the carrots right before serving for an added zing!
