Honey-glazed sweet baby carrots

Honey-glazed sweet baby carrots combine natural sweetness with tangy vinegar and a touch of sugar, creating a vibrant side dish. This simple recipe involves boiling, sautéing, and glazing for optimal flavor.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 cup carrots
1/4 cup vinegar
1.50 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp olive oil

Honey-glazed sweet baby carrots are a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tangy flavor of vinegar and a touch of honey. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your meals. Follow these steps to create a dish that's sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Wash and peel the baby carrots if necessary. You can also cut them into smaller pieces if desired for quicker cooking.

2. Carrot Cooking:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the baby carrots to the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly firm.
- Drain the carrots and set them aside.

3. Honey-Glaze Preparation:
- In a medium-sized skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cooked carrots to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to develop a slight golden color.

4. Sweet-and-Sour Mixture:
- Add 1/4 cup vinegar to the skillet with the carrots.
- Sprinkle 1.5 tablespoons of sugar over the carrots and stir to combine the ingredients evenly.

5. Glazing Process:
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the vinegar and sugar mixture thickens and forms a glaze that coats the carrots. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Make sure the carrots are well-coated with the sweet-and-sour glaze for a consistent flavor throughout.

6. Finishing Touches:
- Once the glaze has achieved your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle a pinch of salt or some fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and presentation.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the honey-glazed sweet-and-sour baby carrots to a serving dish.
- Serve them warm as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, honey-glazed sweet baby carrots can elevate any meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to become a favorite go-to side dish. Enjoy your delicious, flavorful carrots with family and friends!

Honey-glazed sweet baby carrots FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for baby carrots to ensure they are tender but not mushy?

Cook the baby carrots in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. This avoids overcooking and ensures they maintain a good texture.

Can I use fresh carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes, you can use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into smaller pieces, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they become tender.

How long can I store leftover honey-glazed carrots in the refrigerator?

Leftover honey-glazed carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What vinegar works best for this recipe?

While the recipe uses vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar are both great choices. Each offers a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I substitute the sugar with another sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup. If using honey, reduce the quantity slightly as it is sweeter. Adjust to taste.

Tips:

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

- Make sure to evenly coat the carrots with the glaze for maximum taste.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference if you prefer more or less sweetness.

- For an added twist, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.

- Serve the carrots warm for the best taste experience.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 22kcal
Protein 0.16g
Carbohydrates 4.83g
Fiber 0.47g
Sugar 3.97g
Fat 2.30g

Honey-glazed sweet baby carrots