Honey Glazed Carrots
Tender carrots tossed in a sweet and savory glaze of honey, butter, and fresh herbs. A simple, elegant side dish that's perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it's foamy.
- 2
Add the sliced carrots to the pan
- a.Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the carrots evenly with the butter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots begin to soften and develop a slight golden-brown color on the edges.
- 4
Carefully pour in the vegetable broth
- a.Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cover the skillet and let the carrots steam for 6-8 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking; they should still have a slight bite.
- 6
Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high
- a.Drizzle the honey over the carrots and add the chopped fresh thyme.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the liquid has reduced to a thick, glossy glaze that coats each carrot slice.
- 8
Remove the pan from the heat
- a.Stir in the fresh parsley, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For even cooking, ensure all carrot slices are of a uniform thickness (about 1/4-inch).
- 2Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows the carrots to brown properly rather than just steam.
- 3Keep a close eye on the glaze in the final step. Honey can burn quickly, so stir continuously until it thickens.
- 4For a time-saver, you can use pre-sliced carrots or whole baby carrots. If using baby carrots, you may need to increase the steaming time slightly.
- 5This dish can be prepared ahead. Cook until tender, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove, adding the honey and herbs in the final minutes to create the glaze just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper for a touch of heat.
CitrusCitrus
Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice or lemon juice at the very end for a bright, zesty finish.
VeganVegan
Substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter and replace the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Swap the thyme and parsley for other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or finely chopped rosemary.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. This essential nutrient supports healthy vision, immune function, and cell growth.
Good Source of Fiber
The dietary fiber in carrots aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can support weight management.
Packed with Antioxidants
Carrots contain various antioxidants, such as carotenoids and anthocyanins, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
They can be part of a healthy diet. Carrots are rich in vitamins and fiber. However, this recipe includes butter and honey, which add calories and sugar. It's best enjoyed in moderation as a delicious side dish.