Paraben Free Classic Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots are one of those side dishes that look impressive but come together with almost no effort, and this version absolutely delivers on flavor. The natural sweetness of the carrots gets amplified by honey and a simple butter glaze, creating something that tastes far more indulgent than the short ingredient list suggests. Because everything here is built from whole, straightforward kitchen staples — fresh carrots, unsalted butter, honey, and a few seasonings — there's no need to scrutinize labels for synthetic preservatives or additives that can sneak into packaged sauces and pre-made glazes. That peace of mind is genuinely hard to find with store-bought vegetable sides. The technique is the real magic: the carrots steam-cook first until just tender, then the liquid reduces into a glossy, syrupy coating that clings to every slice. A finishing knob of butter and a scatter of fresh thyme pull the whole thing together with an herby brightness. Serve these straight from the skillet while they're still shiny and warm — they won't last long on the table.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ lb carrots, peeled and cut on the bias into ½-inch slices
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the carrots, 2 tbsp butter, water, honey, salt, and pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, until the carrots are just tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
- 2
Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes, until the liquid has reduced to a syrupy glaze that coats the carrots and the pan bottom shows only a thin, shiny film — watch closely near the end, as the glaze can scorch quickly once most of the liquid is gone.
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