Who says Brussels sprouts have to be boring? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’ll make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds!
Our Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon are a game-changer.
Did you know that Brussels sprouts contain more vitamin C than oranges, gram for gram? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup and the irresistible crunch of bacon.
Trust me, you’ll never look at these little green gems the same way again!
The Perfect Ingredients for Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s talk ingredients. The key to this dish’s success lies in the quality of what you’re throwing into that roasting pan:
- Fresh Brussels sprouts: Look for bright green, tightly closed sprouts. The smaller ones tend to be sweeter, but any size will do. Give them a good rinse and trim off any yellowing leaves.
- Quality bacon: Don’t skimp here! A thick-cut, smoky bacon will add depth to your dish. Feeling fancy? Try pancetta for an Italian twist.
- Pure maple syrup: Accept no substitutes! The real deal brings a complex sweetness that imitation syrup just can’t match.
- Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will help everything roast evenly.
- Salt and pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are all you need to enhance the natural flavors.
- Optional add-ins: Feel like experimenting? Try adding a handful of chopped pecans or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat!
The Art of Balancing Flavors: Sweet, Salty, and Savory
What makes this dish so irresistible is its perfect balance of flavors. The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness in the Brussels sprouts, which is then amplified by the maple syrup.
The bacon adds a salty, smoky element that cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile that dances on your tongue.
As the bacon renders, its fat coats the sprouts, adding richness and helping them crisp up even more. Those little crispy bacon bits? They’re like flavor bombs in every bite!
The maple syrup does double duty here – not only does it add sweetness, but it also creates a gorgeous glaze that coats everything in a sticky, delicious layer.
Don’t forget the power of seasoning! A good pinch of salt and pepper can elevate all these flavors, making each bite more satisfying than the last.
Nutritional Benefits of Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “This sounds delicious, but is it healthy?” Well, you might be surprised!
Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses. They’re packed with vitamins C and K, high in fiber, and even contain a decent amount of protein for a vegetable. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against certain diseases.
Bacon, while not exactly a health food, does provide protein and can be enjoyed in moderation. Plus, a little goes a long way in adding flavor!
Maple syrup, when used in moderation, is a natural sweetener that contains some beneficial minerals like manganese and zinc.
Overall, this dish offers a good balance of nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to many traditional side dishes. It’s all about moderation and enjoyment!
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas:
- Serve alongside a juicy roast chicken or turkey for a holiday-worthy meal.
- Pair with grilled pork chops for a delicious weeknight dinner.
- For a vegetarian option, serve over a bed of quinoa or wild rice.
Wine pairing? A light-bodied Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc would complement these flavors beautifully.
For an extra touch of elegance, try garnishing with some fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds.
Make-ahead tip: You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon up to a day in advance. Just toss them with oil and store in the fridge until you’re ready to roast!
Variations and Adaptations of the Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to try:
- Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and add some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. Finish with some crumbled goat cheese for extra tang.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Nutty crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese right after roasting.
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before roasting. You may need to adjust the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon up to a day in advance. Just toss them with oil and store in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. For best results, add the maple syrup just before serving.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds 680g fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 ounces 115g bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization.
- Prep your Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and halving them lengthwise. Don’t toss those loose leaves – they’ll become deliciously crispy in the oven!
- In a large bowl, toss your halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the sprouts on a large baking sheet, cut-side down. This is key for maximum caramelization!
- Sprinkle your chopped bacon over the sprouts.
- Roast for about 20-25 minutes, until the sprouts are tender and starting to brown.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the sprouts and bacon, then return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until everything is beautifully caramelized.