These honey glazed carrots are bright, sweet, and oh-so-delicious! They are cooked until tender and then coated in a lovely sticky honey sauce that makes them a real treat.
Serving these with dinner makes everything feel special. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar! 🥕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are sweet, tender, and ready to go – no chopping needed! If you can’t find them, regular carrots work too. Just cut them into sticks. I love using rainbow carrots for their colorful presentation.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or vegan butter instead. Both give a nice flavor while keeping it plant-based.
Honey: This adds the sweet glaze to the carrots. If you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup can work well as a substitute. They both have a similar sweetness and consistency.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and brightness. You can leave it out if you’re in a hurry, but it really enhances the dish! Fresh thyme or dill could also be a great alternative.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Glaze on Carrots?
The key to that sticky, delicious glaze is all in the cooking method! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by sautéing the carrots in melted butter. This gives them a nice flavor base.
- Add honey and stir to combine. Keep the heat manageable; you want the honey to warm and infuse, not burn.
- Cook until the carrots are tender and the sauce thickens. Stirring occasionally helps coat them well so every bite is sweet and yummy.
Remember to keep an eye on the carrots as they cook – you want them tender but not mushy. Happy cooking!
How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled regular carrots cut into sticks)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. In no time, you’ll have a beautiful side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
If you’re not using baby carrots, wash and peel the regular carrots, then cut them into sticks. This step ensures all your carrots cook evenly and are ready for glazing!
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, place over medium heat, add the unsalted butter, and let it melt. This creates a rich base for your glaze.
3. Sauté the Carrots:
Add the carrots into the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the carrots cook evenly and start to soften a bit.
4. Drizzle with Honey:
Once the carrots are slightly tender, drizzle the honey over them. Stir well to ensure each carrot is coated with that sweet goodness.
5. Cook Until Glazed:
Continue to cook for an additional 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the carrots to become tender and the sauce to turn sticky and glaze-like.
6. Season the Dish:
Now, hit those carrots with some salt and black pepper to bring out all the flavors. Give them a final stir.
7. Transfer to a Dish:
Carefully remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. This makes serving much easier.
8. Add the Finishing Touch:
Don’t forget the garnish! Sprinkle the finely chopped parsley over the top for a fresh appearance and added flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your honey glazed carrots are ready to serve warm! They pair nicely with any main dish and are sure to delight your family and guests!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just make sure to thaw them first. It’s best to let them sit in the fridge overnight or thaw them in a sealed bag in cold water. This will help them cook evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer a different sweetener, agave syrup or maple syrup are great alternatives. They have a similar consistency and sweetness, making them perfect substitutes in this recipe.
How Can I Store Leftover Honey Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through to maintain texture and flavor.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in other veggies like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so that everything cooks evenly and achieves a nice glaze.
