Sticky carrots

Sticky carrots are a sweet and herbaceous side dish, featuring tender roasted carrots coated in a honey-butter-thyme glaze. This recipe ensures a delightful caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness.

01 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 cups carrots
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh thyme
Sticky carrots

Sticky carrots provide a delightful combination of sweetness and herbaceous flavor, making them a perfect side dish for any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a caramelized glaze on tender carrots that will satisfy the taste buds of everyone at your table.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots:
- Peel the carrots and cut them into sticks or rounds, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size to promote even cooking.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C or Gas Mark 6).
3. Coat the Carrots:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrot sticks or rounds with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Roast the Carrots:
- Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Roast the carrots for about 20-25 minutes, or until they start to become tender and slightly golden. Stir them halfway through the cooking time for even roasting.
5. Prepare the Sticky Glaze:
- While the carrots are roasting, melt the 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the melted butter and stir until well combined.
- Mix in the fresh thyme leaves, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the glaze.
6. Combine Carrots with Glaze:
- After the carrots are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven.
- Transfer the roasted carrots back to the mixing bowl and pour the honey-butter-thyme glaze over them.
- Toss the carrots gently until they are evenly coated with the sticky glaze.
7. Final Roasting:
- Place the glazed carrots back on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and adhere to the carrots, making them deliciously sticky.
8. Serve:
- Remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with a few extra thyme leaves if desired.

Enjoy your sticky carrots as a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The combination of honey and thyme creates a unique, flavorful experience that highlights the natural sweetness of the carrots. Bon appétit!

Sticky carrots FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for sticky carrots?

The carrots should be roasted for about 20-25 minutes, then returned to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes after glazing to allow the glaze to caramelize.

How can I tell when the carrots are done?

The carrots are done when they are tender and slightly golden. You can test doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be easily pierced but still hold their shape.

What can I use as a substitute for honey in this recipe?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey. Adjust the amount to taste as these alternatives may vary in sweetness.

How should I store leftover sticky carrots?

Store leftover sticky carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use other herbs instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, you can substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or parsley, but keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly. Use fresh herbs for the best results.

Tips:

- Choose fresh, young carrots for the best flavor and texture.

- Cut the carrots evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

- For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

- Stir the carrots frequently while cooking to coat them evenly with the glaze.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 90kcal
Protein 1.34g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 3.89g
Sugar 8g
Fat 7g

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