Caramelized Carrots Recipe

Introduction

Caramelized carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for any meal, especially during Thanksgiving. Their natural sweetness enhanced by honey makes them a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add the sliced carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes.
3. Step 3: Drizzle the honey over the carrots and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Step 4: Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are caramelized and tender, about 10 to 15 minutes more.
5. Step 5: If using, add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and let the carrots cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• For a deeper flavor, use brown sugar instead of honey, or add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
• Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the caramelizing step to brighten the sweetness.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the natural sweetness and add an aromatic touch.
• Cut carrots uniformly to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

Storage

Store caramelized carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water if needed to keep them moist and prevent sticking. This makes them easy to prepare in advance without losing flavor or texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Fresh carrots work best for caramelizing because they hold their texture and natural sweetness. Frozen carrots can be used, but they might release more water and become softer during cooking.

How do I know when the carrots are properly caramelized?

They should have a golden-brown color and a tender texture with slightly crisp edges. The honey will create a glossy coating that enhances their natural sweetness.

Caramelized Carrots Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 149 reviews

Caramelized carrots are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any meal. With simple ingredients like honey and olive oil, these carrots are cooked until tender and caramelized, creating a sweet and savory flavor. You can prepare them ahead of time and reheat gently before serving, making them a convenient, flavorful addition to your holiday spread.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds

Seasoning and Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the carrots.
2. Cook the carrots: Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes.
3. Add honey and seasoning: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey evenly over the carrots, then season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
4. Caramelize the carrots: Continue cooking the carrots, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes more. The honey will help develop a glossy, golden coating on the carrots.
5. Add herbs (optional): In the last few minutes of cooking, add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs to infuse additional flavor.
6. Cool and store: Remove the skillet from heat and let the carrots cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
7. Reheat before serving: When ready to serve, gently reheat the carrots in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist and prevent sticking.

Notes

• For best flavor, use fresh, firm carrots.
• Honey can be substituted with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet to allow even caramelization.
• If you prefer, omit herbs or substitute with other fresh herbs like parsley.
• Reheat gently to avoid overcooking and drying out the carrots.

Keywords: caramelized carrots, honey glazed carrots, Thanksgiving side dish, easy carrot recipe, stovetop carrots, holiday side dish