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Savory Glazed Carrots with Butter and Thyme

savory glazed carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring tender carrots glazed in rich butter and fresh thyme, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
  • 3 tablespoons (42 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut 1 pound (450 grams) of carrots into sticks about 2-3 inches long and ½-inch thick.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons (42 grams) of unsalted butter. Let it melt and start to foam gently, but don’t let it brown.
  3. Stir in 1 small minced garlic clove and 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the carrot sticks to the pan. Toss them gently with the butter, garlic, and thyme so they’re coated.
  5. Pour in ¼ cup (60 ml) of water or vegetable broth to help steam the carrots and keep them tender.
  6. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (if using), ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper evenly over the carrots.
  7. Cover the pan with a lid and let the carrots cook over medium-low heat until tender but still slightly firm, about 15-18 minutes. Check every 5 minutes and stir gently to prevent sticking.
  8. Remove the lid in the last 5 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce and the glaze to thicken, forming a shiny, sticky coating on the carrots.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle a bit more fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Use organic carrots for better sweetness. If dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and add a pinch more thyme. Avoid browning the butter to prevent bitterness. Uniform carrot pieces ensure even cooking. Add more water if carrots are not tender enough. Fresh thyme is preferred over dried for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: glazed carrots, butter, thyme, side dish, easy recipe, savory carrots, holiday side, quick vegetables