These grilled carrots are sweet and smoky, coated in a tasty honey and brown sugar glaze. They’re a fun side dish that adds color and flavor to any meal!
I love munching on these beauties right off the grill. They’re like candy, but healthy! Try pairing them with chicken or steak for a perfect dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are great because they cook evenly on the grill. You can use regular carrots cut into sticks if baby carrots aren’t available—just make sure they’re about the same thickness for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the glaze stick. If you’re looking for a different taste, you could swap it for avocado oil or even melted butter for a richer flavor.
Honey: Honey helps to give that nice caramelized finish on the grill. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can replace honey perfectly.
Brown Sugar: This brings sweetness to the dish. If you’re avoiding sugar, coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute could work, but keep in mind the flavor might change a bit.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds a warm spice to the glaze. I love using it, but if you’re not a fan, you can simply leave it out or try a pinch of nutmeg instead.
How Do I Get the Best Grill Marks on My Carrots?
Grilling carrots the right way results in beautiful marks and a nice char! Here are steps to follow:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot enough to sear the carrots.
- Make sure your carrots are well-coated in the glaze; this helps them caramelize and not stick.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each carrot some space for even cooking.
- Turn them every 5-7 minutes. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks while preventing burning.
- Look for tender carrots that are slightly charred for the best flavor.
Don’t rush the process; allow them to cook slowly for the best results! Enjoy the smoky sweetness of these carrots!
Grilled Carrots with Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Carrots:
- 1 lb (450g) baby carrots, cleaned and trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Fresh thyme or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to grill. All together, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in about 30 minutes. Quick and easy for a tasty side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your carrots get that nice, smoky flavor and grill marks.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until it’s all well mixed and smooth. This glaze is what will make your carrots sweet and tasty!
3. Coat the Carrots:
Add the cleaned baby carrots to your bowl with the glaze. Toss them around gently until all the carrots are evenly coated with the delicious mixture.
4. Grill the Carrots:
Take the coated carrots and place them directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 15-20 minutes, making sure to turn them occasionally. You’re looking for them to be tender and to develop those lovely grill marks!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the carrots are perfectly grilled, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. To make it extra special, sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top and add fresh thyme or parsley. These garnishes not only look beautiful but add a burst of flavor too!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the grilled carrots warm and enjoy this delicious dish as a side for your meal. They are sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you opt for regular carrots, just peel and cut them into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. Aim for sticks about 1 inch thick so they will grill nicely and tenderize properly.
What Can I Substitute for Honey and Brown Sugar?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use maple syrup instead of honey and coconut sugar or granulated sugar in place of brown sugar. Just keep the measurements the same, but note that the flavor may change slightly!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Carrots?
Store any leftover grilled carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. These are great cold in salads or can be reheated gently in a pan to enjoy warm again!
Can I Make This Dish in the Oven Instead of the Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes or until tender, tossing halfway through for even cooking.
