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Savory Honey Butter Glazed Carrots with Fresh Thyme

honey butter glazed carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with a sweet honey butter sauce and fresh thyme, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices or sticks
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons (42g) honey, preferably raw or wildflower
  • 1 tablespoon (about 3g) fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1g) freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel 1 pound (450g) of fresh carrots and slice them into uniform 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thick rounds or sticks.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons (28g) of unsalted butter. Let it melt gently until foaming and fragrant, but not browned.
  3. Add the sliced carrots and minced garlic (if using) to the skillet. Stir to coat the carrots evenly in the butter. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots start to soften but still have a bit of crunch.
  4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (42g) of honey over the carrots, sprinkle 1 tablespoon (3g) of fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (1g) freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low to prevent the honey from burning. Let the carrots cook and caramelize in the glaze for another 5-7 minutes until a glossy coating builds up.
  6. Test for doneness by piercing a carrot slice with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy. If needed, cook 1-2 minutes longer. If the glaze is too thick or sticky, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it slightly.
  7. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust salt or thyme as needed.
  8. Transfer to a serving dish immediately and serve warm.

Notes

Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweetness. Avoid high heat to prevent burning the honey glaze. Let butter soften at room temperature for even melting. If honey crystallizes, add a splash of warm water to restore shine. Cook carrots in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey butter glazed carrots, fresh thyme carrots, easy side dish, quick carrot recipe, savory glazed carrots, healthy side dish