Easy Soy Sauce and Honey Stovetop Glazed Sticky Carrots

Glazed carrot sticks are a delicious and versatile side dish. To make crispy and flavorful sticks, carrots are cut into sticks and tossed with soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar. The marinated carrots are then cooked until tender and caramelized. Adding apple cider vinegar adds a tangy and acidic note to the glaze, cutting through the sweetness and creating a balanced flavor. Glazed carrot sticks pair well with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a bed of quinoa or brown rice. It might become your new favorite side dish.

What Are Glazed Carrot Sticks?

Glazed carrot sticks are a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with a tangy and savory glaze made with soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.

The recipe likely emerged as a fusion of various culinary influences. The use of soy sauce and honey suggests Asian influences, while the addition of apple cider vinegar may point to European or North American influences. The combination of sweet ingredients like brown sugar and honey with savory elements like soy sauce and apple cider vinegar creates a complex and satisfying taste.

You can customize the glaze by adjusting the amounts of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar to suit your taste preferences. Glazed carrot sticks are a simple and quick dish to prepare, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Pro Tips

• Experiment with different glazes. While the classic soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar glaze is delicious, you can also try other combinations like maple syrup, chili sauce, or ginger-garlic paste for a unique twist.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the glaze.
• Instead of cooking the carrots on the stovetop, try roasting them in the oven for a slightly caramelized flavor.
• For a more colorful and nutritious dish, add other vegetables like broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or bell pepper strips to the glaze.
• For a fun and flavorful accompaniment, serve the glazed carrot sticks with a dipping sauce like ranch, hummus, or a yogurt-based dip.
• Experiment with different cuts of carrots, such as baby carrots or thick-cut rounds, to change the texture and appearance of the dish.

What Is the Best Way to Cut Carrots for Glazed Carrot Sticks?

Carrots should be cut into uniform sticks for even cooking and a visually appealing presentation. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent cuts.

Can I Use Maple Syrup Instead of Honey?

Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey in the glaze. It will add a slightly different flavor profile, but the overall sweetness will remain similar.

How Long Should I Cook the Glazed Carrot Sticks?

Cook the carrot sticks until they are tender-crisp and the glaze is caramelized. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes over medium heat.

Can I Bake These in The Oven Instead?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), toss the carrots with the olive oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, adding the apple cider vinegar and honey halfway through. Finish by sprinkling with sesame seeds before serving.

Can I Make Glazed Carrot Sticks Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make glazed carrot sticks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, they may become slightly soggy if stored for too long.

What Can I Serve with Glazed Carrot Sticks?

Glazed carrot sticks pair well with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a bed of quinoa or brown rice. They can also be served as a side dish or appetizer on their own.

How Can I Add More Spice to Glazed Carrot Sticks?

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the glaze.

More Carrot Side Dishes To Try!

Caramelized Carrots

Classic Sauteed Carrots

Fried Carrot Sticks

Maple Glazed Carrots

Roasted Carrots

Spicy Parmesan Carrot Sticks

How to Store Glazed Carrot Sticks

Store the carrots in the fridge (in an airtight container) for up to 3 to 4 days.

How To Make Glazed Carrot Sticks

Cut the carrots into sticks of uniform size.

Transfer the carrot sticks to a large skillet or frying pan.

Drizzle the carrots with olive oil, soy sauce, and light brown sugar. Toss the carrots to coat them evenly in the marinade.

Cover the pan with a lid and cook the carrots over medium heat for 15 minutes or until slightly tender.

Remove the lid and add the apple cider vinegar and honey. Stir to combine and continue cooking for a few more minutes, or until the glaze becomes thick and caramelized.

Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the glazed carrot sticks to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and serve immediately.