Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These glazed carrots are not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can transform basic carrots into a mouthwatering side dish that everyone will love. The honey and brown sugar glaze makes the carrots tender, while the butter adds a rich, creamy texture. Plus, this dish takes just a few minutes to prepare, leaving you with more time to focus on other elements of your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Boil the carrots in a pot of water for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the honey and brown sugar, mixing well until everything is melted and combined.
- Once the carrots are cooked, drain them and toss them in the butter and honey glaze.
- Let the carrots cook in the glaze for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add herbs: For a more complex flavor, you can add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze. These herbs complement the sweetness of the carrots and add a savory note to balance the dish.
- Roasted glazed carrots: Instead of boiling the carrots, you can roast them in the oven for an extra caramelized flavor. Toss the carrots in the honey and butter mixture, then roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, cozy twist, perfect for fall.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the carrots in a saucepan over low heat, adding a small splash of water or additional butter to help loosen the glaze.
FAQs
Can I make these glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze in advance. Simply store the boiled carrots and glaze separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, toss the carrots in the glaze and heat through.
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular ones?
Absolutely! Baby carrots work well in this recipe and can save you some prep time, as they typically don’t require peeling.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup for honey in this recipe for a different flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure you have a large enough pan to handle the extra ingredients.
How do I prevent the carrots from getting too mushy?
Be sure to boil the carrots just until they are tender, but not too soft. A quick test with a fork will tell you when they’re ready to move on to the glazing step.
Can I use brown butter for an extra rich flavor?
Absolutely! Brown butter will add a nutty, rich flavor to the glaze. Just be sure to watch it closely as it cooks to avoid burning.
Can I freeze glazed carrots?
While it’s possible to freeze glazed carrots, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or stored in the fridge for up to a few days.
Are these glazed carrots a healthy choice for Thanksgiving?
While these glazed carrots have added sweetness from honey and brown sugar, they are still a healthier option compared to many other traditional sides. You can also reduce the sugar content if desired for a lighter version.
Conclusion
Glazed carrots are a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that adds both sweetness and elegance to your Thanksgiving table. With a simple glaze made of honey, butter, and brown sugar, these carrots are sure to impress your guests and complement your savory dishes perfectly. Whether you prepare them ahead of time or whip them up on the day of, this dish is bound to become a holiday favorite!
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Glazed Carrots for Thanksgiving
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Honey Glazed Carrots are a sweet, buttery side dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving meal. Tender carrots are coated in a rich honey and brown sugar glaze, making them a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday spread. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish will add a touch of sweetness to balance out your savory dishes, making it a holiday favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Carrots: In a pot of water, boil the carrots for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in honey and brown sugar, mixing until the glaze is smooth and combined.
- Combine the Carrots and Glaze: Drain the boiled carrots and toss them in the butter and honey glaze. Let the carrots cook in the glaze for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy fall twist. For a caramelized flavor, try roasting the carrots instead of boiling them.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan with a splash of water or butter to loosen the glaze.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter as a substitute to make the dish dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Glazing
- Cuisine: American
