Balsamic Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, enhanced by a rich balsamic glaze and a touch of honey. The air fryer creates a perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization, making these carrots a crowd-pleasing side dish. Quick, flavorful, and easy to prepare, they’re a great addition to any meal!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 ounces carrots (peeled and cut into 2″ pieces, halve large pieces lengthwise)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped)

directions

1. Prepare the carrots: Peel and cut the carrots into 2-inch pieces. If some pieces are large, halve them lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Season the carrots: In a mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the carrots are evenly coated.
3. Air fry the carrots: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned carrots in the air fryer basket, spreading them out in an even layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
4. Prepare the glaze: While the carrots are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the balsamic glaze and cook for about 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Glaze the carrots: Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, remove them from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the carrots, and toss to coat.
6. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15-18 minutes
• Total time: 20-23 minutes

Variations

• Add garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, add 1-2 minced garlic cloves to the seasoning mixture before air frying.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the carrots for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
• Herb variation: Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of chives for a different herbal flavor.
• Sweetened alternative: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, substitute maple syrup for honey in the glaze.
• Roasted nuts: Top with roasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a bit of crunch.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the carrots in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, baby carrots will work well. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they tend to cook faster.

2. Can I make the balsamic glaze at home?

Yes, to make a homemade balsamic glaze, simmer 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar over medium heat until it thickens to a syrupy consistency (about 10 minutes).

3. Do I need to peel the carrots?

Peeling is optional. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly.

4. Can I make this recipe without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey and use maple syrup or a sugar substitute for a similar sweet flavor. You can also skip it entirely for a more savory version.

5. How do I know when the carrots are done?

The carrots are done when they are fork-tender and slightly caramelized. If they’re still a bit firm, cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer.

6. Can I cook this in a regular oven?

Yes, you can roast the carrots in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through. The texture will be similar to air frying.

7. How do I make these carrots more caramelized?

For a more caramelized effect, add an extra tablespoon of honey or increase the cook time by a few minutes. The honey helps achieve that golden, crispy coating.

8. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the carrots and store them in the fridge before air frying. Reheat them in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes before glazing.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed.

10. How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more honey or maple syrup. For a more tangy profile, reduce the amount of honey or use a bit more balsamic glaze.

Conclusion

Balsamic Glazed Air Fryer Carrots are a quick, flavorful, and healthy side dish that will complement any meal. With a beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, these carrots are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy nights or special occasions, they’re a simple way to elevate your vegetable game!

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