Description
A simple yet gourmet side dish that transforms humble carrots into a caramelized, nutty, and sweet masterpiece using brown butter, honey, and fresh thyme.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds carrots (large carrots preferred, peeled and cut into ½-inch coins or sticks)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for finishing)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- Optional: Orange zest, toasted walnuts or pecans, crumbled feta or goat cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and peel carrots. Cut into uniform ½-inch coins or sticks and toss onto a baking sheet.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a whisk until the foam subsides, the butter turns deep golden amber, and smells nutty. Remove from heat immediately.
- Pour the hot brown butter over the carrots on the baking sheet.
- Add honey, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Use tongs to toss until every carrot is coated.
- Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Remove from oven, taste, and add more salt if needed. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not crowd the pan or the carrots will steam instead of roast. Watch the butter closely as it burns quickly. Uniform cuts ensure even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 1
Keywords: roasted carrots, brown butter, honey glazed carrots, thyme carrots, easy side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free, kid-friendly vegetables, budget-friendly meals