These grilled carrots are a sweet and simple treat! With a lovely honey brown sugar glaze, they turn tender and caramelized, making a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how the natural sweetness of the carrots shines through that glaze. They’re so good that even the pickiest eaters might ask for seconds! 🥕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: Fresh baby carrots are sweet and tender. If they’re not available, you can cut regular carrots into sticks. Just remember to peel and trim them before cooking!
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the glaze. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Honey: Honey gives a sweet touch that caramelizes beautifully. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is a great choice—just use the same amount.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor. You can swap it with coconut sugar for a healthier option, but the color may be a bit different.
Cinnamon: It’s optional but adds warmth. If you’re not a fan, consider using a dash of nutmeg or allspice instead for a unique twist!
Pomegranate Seeds: They provide a lovely burst of flavor and color. If you don’t have these, try using dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different texture.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Carrots?
Grilling carrots can be a bit tricky since you want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those nice grill marks.
- Toss the carrots with the glaze thoroughly. It helps them caramelize better on the grill.
- Arrange the carrots in a single layer on the grill. Avoid overcrowding so they can cook evenly.
- Turn them occasionally every few minutes. This ensures all sides get cooked well and have that delicious char.
- Different sizes of carrots might need slight adjustments in cooking time, so check for tenderness around the 15-minute mark.
How to Make Grilled Carrots With Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 pound baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes, including 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for grilling. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for enhancing your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help the carrots get that nice grilling flavor and beautiful char.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (if you’re using it). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together well until it becomes a smooth glaze.
3. Coat the Carrots:
Now, add the peeled and trimmed baby carrots to the bowl. Toss them gently in the glaze until they are evenly coated. This will ensure each carrot is packed with flavor!
4. Grill the Carrots:
Place the glazed carrots on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the carrots to become tender and develop lovely grill marks. The occasional turning helps them cook evenly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the carrots are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle some vibrant pomegranate seeds on top for color and freshness. Finally, garnish with some chopped parsley or chives for that extra touch.
6. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve the carrots warm as a tasty side dish to your favorite main course. Enjoy the sweetness and smokiness of these delightful grilled carrots!
## FAQ for Grilled Carrots With Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you’re using regular carrots, just cut them into sticks or rounds that are about the same size as baby carrots to ensure even grilling. You may need to adjust the grilling time; larger pieces might take a little longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor will slightly change, but it will still be delicious. Just make sure to check that the brown sugar is vegan-friendly as well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of olive oil if they seem dry!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Grill?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have different cooking times, so cut them into similar sizes and check for doneness accordingly!
