Slice the carrots crosswise into "coins"
Put the carrots in a saucepan with ¼ cup of water, ½ teaspoon of sugar and a small pinch of salt.
With the lid on, bring the covered saucepan to a boil over medium heat. When the pot boils, turn the heat down to low and let the carrots simmer until all the water has been absorbed.
Stir in the lemon juice, chopped thyme, and lemon zest.