Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Introduction
Discover a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors with this maple bacon Brussels sprouts recipe. Perfect for every occasion, this dish combines crispy bacon with tender Brussels sprouts lightly coated in a maple glaze. Whether as a side dish for holiday meals or a weeknight dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 1½ pounds of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Black pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor
Prep Time
This recipe requires roughly 10 minutes for preparation. During this time, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts, dice the bacon, and gather the remaining ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Make sure everything is within reach for quick and efficient preparation.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking process takes approximately 25 minutes, bringing the total time for this dish to just around 35 minutes. This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for family dinners or friendly gatherings. Enjoy the perfect combination of crunchy, caramelized sprouts and smoky bacon in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
1. Start by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under running water.
2. Using a sharp knife, trim the stems of the Brussels sprouts and peel away any damaged or loose outer leaves.
3. For even roasting, slice the Brussels sprouts in halves or quarters depending on their size.
Step 2: Preheat your Oven
1. Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add bacon slices to the skillet and cook until they are crisp and golden brown.
3. Once cooked, place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease.
4. After it cools slightly, chop the cooked bacon into small, bite-sized pieces.
5. Do not discard the bacon grease; you will use it in the next step.
Step 4: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
1. Add the trimmed and sliced Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease.
2. Sauté the sprouts over medium heat, stirring occasionally to coat them evenly in the grease.
3. Cook the Brussels sprouts for about 8–10 minutes or until they start to caramelize and develop a golden-brown color.
Step 5: Add Maple Syrup
1. Once the Brussels sprouts are nicely caramelized, reduce the heat slightly.
2. Drizzle maple syrup evenly over the sprouts in the skillet.
3. Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat them thoroughly in the maple syrup. Allow the syrup to heat and slightly caramelize for about 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine with Bacon
1. Add the chopped bacon back into the skillet with the caramelized Brussels sprouts.
2. Stir to combine the bacon and Brussels sprouts thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in the flavorful mixture.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
1. Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.
2. Transfer the Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts to a serving dish or plate.
3. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful side dish.
Notes
Note 1: Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to season the Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Keep in mind that bacon is naturally salty, so taste the dish before adding more salt.
Note 2: Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts
For the best flavor and texture, use fresh Brussels sprouts rather than frozen ones. Fresh sprouts retain their crunch and caramelize better.
Note 3: Alternative Sweeteners
If you’re out of maple syrup or prefer a substitute, try honey or brown sugar instead. These will also add a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Note 4: Bacon Substitutes
For a vegetarian option, skip the bacon and sauté the Brussels sprouts in olive oil or butter. To add smokiness, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Note 5: Oven-Roasting Option
If you prefer oven-roasting the Brussels sprouts, spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. After roasting, mix with cooked bacon and maple syrup.
Cook Techniques
Preparing Brussels Sprouts
Ensure the Brussels sprouts are thoroughly washed and trimmed. Remove outer, discolored leaves and slice each sprout in half for consistent cooking.
Cooking Bacon
Cook the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until they are crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, but do not discard all of the grease, as it is used for flavoring the Brussels sprouts.
Sautéing Brussels Sprouts
Use the bacon grease left in the skillet to sauté the halved Brussels sprouts. Stir occasionally to cook them evenly and get a nicely caramelized texture.
Adding Maple Syrup
As the Brussels sprouts begin to soften and caramelize, stir in the maple syrup. This will add sweetness and help coat the sprouts for a balanced flavor.
Combining Bacon
Crumble the cooked bacon into the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and maple syrup. Stir well to mix all ingredients before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you do not have maple syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter instead of bacon grease. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, feel free to add other ingredients such as nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) for added texture or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the texture.
Conclusion
This maple bacon Brussels sprouts recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The smoky, crispy bacon complements the natural earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, while the maple syrup adds a delightful hint of sweetness. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that turns a simple vegetable into a star dish. Whether you are preparing a festive feast or a casual family dinner, this recipe will surely become a crowd favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Try adding garlic and olive oil to roasted Brussels sprouts for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
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Pair Brussels sprouts with roasted carrots glazed in honey and mustard for a vibrant and tasty combination.
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A crispy and cheesy asparagus dish works wonderfully alongside the savory-sweet flavors of the maple bacon Brussels sprouts.
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For a refreshing twist, toss shredded Brussels sprouts with apple slices, walnuts, and a tangy dressing.
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Serve maple bacon Brussels sprouts as a side to maple-glazed salmon for a well-balanced and delicious meal.
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A creamy mashed potato dish with herb butter is a fantastic companion to the crispy Brussels sprouts.
