Nitrate & Nitrite Free Classic Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet, buttery, and finished with a glossy honey glaze, this carrot side dish is the kind of thing that disappears from the table before anything else does. It comes together in a single skillet with just a handful of clean, whole ingredients — carrots, butter, honey, water, and a pinch of seasoning — so there's nothing hidden or processed to worry about. That matters more than people realize, because a lot of packaged or cured foods sneak in preservatives that those avoiding nitrates and nitrites need to steer clear of. Here, every ingredient is exactly what it says it is. The technique is simple but smart: the carrots steam tender under a lid first, then the liquid reduces down into a rich, caramelized glaze that clings to every slice. A scatter of fresh thyme at the end adds a herby brightness that makes the whole dish feel a little more special. It's an easy weeknight side that also looks impressive enough for a holiday spread.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ lb carrots, peeled and cut on the bias into ½-inch slices
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- ½ cup water
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the carrots, butter, honey, water, 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.
- 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 thick, glossy glaze that coats the carrots and the edges of the pan begin to look lightly caramelized. Watch closely in the final minute — the honey can scorch quickly once the liquid is nearly gone.
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