Description
Sweet, tender, and kissed with a buttery shine, these honey glazed carrots balance savory and sweet with hints of citrus and thyme. A nostalgic yet modern comfort dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds fresh carrots (peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
3 tablespoons honey (raw or organic preferred)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Zest of ½ orange (optional)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or chopped fresh)
1–2 teaspoons water (if needed to thin glaze)
Instructions
1. Peel and chop carrots into uniform 2-inch pieces.
2. Steam or blanch carrots for 5–7 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add honey, brown sugar, orange zest, salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Stir until the glaze is bubbly and slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
6. Add carrots and toss to coat.
7. Cook for 5–7 minutes more, stirring occasionally, until carrots are glossy and caramelized.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
You can substitute maple syrup for honey for a deeper flavor.
Try cinnamon or nutmeg instead of thyme for a festive touch.
Pairs beautifully with pork chops, baked chicken, or holiday spreads.
For an international twist, try cumin and lemon (Moroccan), ginger and sesame oil (Asian fusion), or chili flakes and lime (Mexican).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: honey glazed carrots, holiday side, southern comfort food, glazed vegetables