Sweet & Savory Glazed Carrots 🥕✨

These Glazed Carrots are a delightful balance of sweetness and savor, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. The glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a touch of warmth and flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, this simple recipe will make your taste buds dance! 💃🕺

Ingredients

For the carrots

• 1 lb (450g) baby carrots (or sliced regular carrots)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the glaze

• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for a citrus burst)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)

Instructions

• Begin by rinsing the baby carrots under cool water. If using regular carrots, peel and slice them into even pieces.

🥕 If carrots are unevenly sliced, they won’t cook evenly, so take a little extra time to cut them right!

• In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

• Sauté the carrots for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, thyme, orange zest, and cayenne pepper.

🍯 For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to the glaze.

• Pour the glaze over the sautéed carrots and stir to coat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the glaze has thickened.

🔥 Keep an eye on the carrots to prevent the glaze from burning. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it up.

• Once the carrots are tender and glistening from the glaze, remove them from heat and serve immediately.

🎉 They pair beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack!

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Replace thyme with fresh rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile. 🌿

• Spicy Kick: Add a sliced jalapeño to the pan when cooking the carrots for some heat!

• Creamy Glaze: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk after the glaze thickens to create a creamy sauce.

• Meal Prep: These glazed carrots store well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an excellent option for meal prepping.

With their beautiful color and delightful flavor, these Glazed Carrots are sure to brighten up any table! Enjoy! 🥳🎊