Honey and thyme roasted carrots (30 min): soft and tender

Looking for the perfect time to roast carrots with honey and thyme ? Good news: in 30 minutes , you'll have golden, tender, and fragrant carrots, perfect for accompanying any dish or shining as an aperitif. Here's the complete guide to successfully cooking this classic, its variations, and all the tips for perfect cooking, without the hassle. 🥕

Key ingredients (serves 4)

• New carrots (or classic carrots)
• Sweet honey (acacia, lavender, etc.)
• Dried or fresh thyme
• Virgin olive oil
• Salt, freshly ground pepper
• Optional: sesame seeds, roasted hazelnuts, smoked paprika

How to make successful honey and thyme roasted carrots

1. Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into evenly sized sticks for even cooking. Keep them whole if they are young and thin.
2. In a bowl, combine the carrots with 1 to 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, without overlapping.
4. Bake at 200°C for 25 to 30 minutes. Turn halfway through cooking so that the carrots brown evenly and the honey caramelizes well.
5. When they come out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme or orange zest for a touch of zest. Serve immediately; that's when they're at their softest!

Cooking and softness tip

For tender carrots without drying them out: add a tablespoon of water or orange juice to the baking sheet before baking. Honey helps with caramelization, and thyme adds a delicate flavor. Feel free to vary the recipe with rosemary or cumin.

Express variations & gourmet ideas

• Vegan version : replace the honey with maple or agave syrup, it works really well!
• Spicy twist : Add a pinch of sweet chili or ras el hanout.
• Glazed carrots : finish under the grill for 2 minutes for a lacquered effect.
• With cheese : Serve with a touch of crumbled feta or fresh goat cheese for a peppy starter.

Which honey and thyme should you choose?

Lavender or acacia honey adds a floral sweetness without masking the carrot. Choose Provençal thyme for a truly Mediterranean touch. Fresh or dried, it releases all its aromas when cooked.

Service Agreements and Ideas

Honey-roasted carrots with thyme are perfect with roasted poultry, grilled fish, hummus, or simply with brown rice. As an appetizer, serve them warm with a lemony yogurt sauce or on toasted seeded bread.

Conservation and meal prep

Store roasted carrots in an airtight container for 3 days in the refrigerator . A quick roast in the oven or pan (180°C, 5 minutes) is enough to restore their tenderness. Avoid freezing, which alters their texture.

Anti-failure tips

• Don't overload the plate: the carrots should roast, not stew.
• Turn halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Add the honey just before putting it in the oven so it doesn't burn.
• Fresh thyme is best added after cooking to retain its fragrance.