Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

There's something magical about the combination of sweet honey and aromatic thyme, especially when it graces the humble carrot. This delightful side dish is not only easy to prepare but also adds a burst of color and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, honey glazed carrots with thyme are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) of carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Carrots: Start by peeling and slicing the carrots into uniform sticks. This ensures even cooking.

2. Blanch the Carrots: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrot sticks and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Glaze: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the honey and allow it to combine with the butter, forming a smooth glaze.

4. 

   Add the Carrots: Once the glaze is ready, add in the blanched carrots. Toss them to ensure they are well-coated with the honey-butter mixture.

5. Season and Finish: Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves over the glazed carrots. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne, if using. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the carrots are caramelized and glazed to perfection. Serve warm.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Honey glazed carrots with thyme not only enhance your meal's flavor profile but also offer nutritional benefits. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. The touch of honey provides a natural sweetness, while thyme adds a hint of herbaceous aroma without extra calories.

To complement this dish, consider pairing it with a protein-rich main course such as roast chicken or grilled salmon. The earthy sweetness of the carrots works well with savory meats. For a vegetarian option, serve these carrots alongside a quinoa salad with feta and cranberries, which adds a contrasting texture and burst of flavor.

When it comes to drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay can enhance the dish's natural sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, a chilled elderflower tonic or sparkling water with a twist of lemon would be refreshing companions.

Whether you’re enhancing a holiday feast or spicing up a weekday dinner, honey glazed carrots with thyme bring both taste and health benefits to your table. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and the versatility this dish offers.