Herb-Infused Glazed Baby Carrots
Experience a harmonious blend of sweetness and herbaceous flavor with these Herb-Infused Glazed Baby Carrots. This quick and easy recipe, adapted from Canadian Living’s Best Recipes Ever, is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish for entertaining guests. Unlike traditional slow-cooked recipes, this method significantly reduces your cooking time while still delivering beautifully glazed carrots that are tender and full of flavor. Complemented by the earthy notes of fresh thyme, these carrots make an excellent accompaniment to a variety of meals, from hearty meats to light grains. If you have picky eaters at home, feel free to omit the thyme; they will still enjoy the deliciously sweet and buttery carrots. To enhance this dish, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon thyme in the summer for a refreshing twist. Surprise your friends and family with this gourmet side dish that appears to be the result of hours in the kitchen, but is actually ready in no time. Enjoy these incredible glazed carrots at your next gathering or family dinner.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Baby Carrots
1 lb (rinsed)
Butter
1 1/2 tablespoons (melted)
Sugar
2 teaspoons (granulated)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Water
3/4 cup (none)
Fresh Thyme Leaves
2 teaspoons (optional, chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by rinsing the baby carrots under cold water and draining them well.
2
In a stainless steel or nonstick frying pan, combine the rinsed carrots with melted butter, sugar, salt, and water.
3
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium.
4
Allow the carrots to cook for about 10 minutes or until the water is mostly evaporated and the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
5
Remove the lid and stir the carrots several times over the next 5 to 10 minutes, maintaining medium heat. For a glossy glaze, cook for 5 minutes; for lightly browned carrots, cook for 10 minutes. You can leave the lid on while stirring.
6
Once the desired glaze is achieved, remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the fresh thyme leaves, if using.
7
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish, garnishing with a whole sprig of thyme for an elegant presentation, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Glazed Baby Carrots?
They are a quick and easy side dish featuring baby carrots cooked in a buttery sugar glaze and seasoned with fresh thyme.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the total cooking time for these carrots?
The carrots take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to cook, including boiling and glazing time.
What ingredients do I need?
You will need 1 lb of baby carrots, butter, sugar, salt, water, and fresh thyme leaves.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots, but you should peel them and cut them into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or a neutral cooking oil.
What type of sugar should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
Yes, but use a smaller amount as dried herbs are more concentrated; about 3/4 teaspoon should suffice.
How do I achieve a glossy glaze?
After the water evaporates, stir the carrots over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they are coated and shiny.
How do I make the carrots lightly browned?
To brown the carrots, continue stirring them for about 10 minutes after the water has evaporated.
Can I omit the thyme?
Yes, if you have picky eaters or prefer a simpler flavor, you can leave out the thyme and still enjoy sweet, buttery carrots.
What is a good variation for summer?
Adding a sprinkle of lemon thyme can provide a refreshing citrus twist that is perfect for summer.
What main dishes go well with these carrots?
They pair excellently with hearty meats, roasted chicken, or light grain-based dishes.
Do I need to peel the baby carrots?
No, simply rinse them under cold water and drain them well before cooking.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a sweetener substitute for the granulated sugar.
What kind of pan is best for this recipe?
A stainless steel or nonstick frying pan works best for boiling and glazing the carrots.
Should the pan be covered while cooking?
Yes, cover the pan while boiling the carrots for the first 10 minutes to help them soften.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your pan is large enough so the carrots are mostly in a single layer for even glazing.
How do I know when the carrots are done?
The carrots are done when the water has evaporated and they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I make these carrots ahead of time?
While they are best served fresh, you can reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if the water doesn't evaporate after 10 minutes?
Simply remove the lid and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the liquid reduces into a glaze.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the sweetness of the glaze makes it a very kid-friendly vegetable side dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
Is this recipe from a specific source?
This recipe is adapted from Canadian Living’s Best Recipes Ever.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, though butter is recommended for the best flavor.
What is the purpose of the water in the recipe?
The water allows the carrots to steam and soften before the sugar and butter reduce into a glaze.
Can I add other herbs besides thyme?
Yes, parsley or rosemary would also complement the glazed carrots well.
How should I garnish the dish?
For an elegant presentation, garnish the serving dish with a whole sprig of fresh thyme.
Is this recipe considered a quick side dish?
Yes, it is much faster than traditional slow-cooked glazed carrot recipes.