These grilled carrots are sweet and smoky, thanks to a yummy glaze made with honey and brown sugar. They are a tasty side dish that adds color to any meal!
Honestly, who knew carrots could taste this good? They make the perfect addition to any BBQ, and I can’t resist sneaking a few right off the grill! 😋
What I love is how easy they are to cook! Just toss them on the grill, brush with the glaze, and enjoy the caramelized goodness. They’re a healthy treat that feels like a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Medium-sized carrots work best for grilling. They are sweet and tender. If you have baby carrots or larger ones, feel free to use those. Just cut larger carrots into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Olive oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the glaze stick. If you’re out, you can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil. Both will work well without altering the taste much.
Honey: Honey gives a delicious sweetness. If you need a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor will be slightly different, but it’ll still be tasty.
Brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a rich sweetness and depth. If you’re out of it, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses to create a quick substitute. Coconut sugar could be another option for a healthier twist.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth to the dish. If you’d like a different flavor, nutmeg or allspice can be used instead, but use them sparingly as they can be stronger in flavor.
How Do You Grill Carrots Perfectly?
Grilling carrots might seem simple, but there are a few tricks to get them just right! Proper preparation and monitoring are key.
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures nice grill marks and proper cooking.
- When mixing the glaze, make sure the carrots are well-coated. This enhances the flavor and gives them a beautiful glaze as they cook.
- Arrange carrots in a single layer on the grill. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Turn them occasionally for even grilling.
- Keep an eye on them as they grill for about 10-15 minutes, testing for tenderness with a fork. You want them soft but still holding their shape.
How to Make Grilled Carrots With Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Carrots:
- 1 pound of medium-sized carrots, peeled and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley
- Pomegranate seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes for grilling. You’ll have delicious grilled carrots ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the carrots cook evenly and get those nice grill marks you want!
2. Prepare the Glaze:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should be a lovely, sticky glaze!
3. Coat the Carrots:
Add the peeled and trimmed carrots to the bowl, and toss them in the honey brown sugar mixture until they are evenly coated. Make sure every carrot is covered in that delicious glaze!
4. Grill the Carrots:
Now, arrange the carrots in a single layer on the grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to become tender and develop nice char marks. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Serve:
Once the carrots are cooked, take them off the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle any leftover glaze over the carrots for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your grilled carrots with fresh thyme or parsley. If you like, sprinkle some pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color and sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty Grilled Carrots With Honey Brown Sugar Glaze!
Can I Use Baby Carrots Instead of Regular Carrots?
Absolutely! Baby carrots are a great substitute. You can grill them as is, or cut them in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly. Just keep an eye on the grill time, as they may cook a bit faster than regular carrots.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water to avoid drying them out.
Is There a Substitute for Honey in This Recipe?
Yes, if you’re looking for an alternative, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as substitutes for honey. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still add that lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute that can be used for baking.
Can I Prepare the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the honey brown sugar glaze in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, just give it a good stir before tossing the carrots.
