Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts

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Brussels sprouts, the misunderstood vegetable that has gained quite a bad reputation over the years.

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Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts
Prep
10 min
Cook
20 min
Total
30 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until it is evenly browned (approximately 10 minutes).

  2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet, but keep the drippings. Place the bacon slices on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

  3. In the same skillet, add the onion and salt to the hot bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes tender (around 5 minutes).

  4. Pour water and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Stir and cook over medium-high heat until the water reaches a boiling point. Use a spatula to scrape the pan and dissolve any brown bits in the water.

  5. Add the Brussels sprouts and vinegar to the skillet. Stir the mixture often and cook until the Brussels sprouts become tender (approximately 4 to 6 minutes).

  6. To serve, combine the cooked Brussels sprouts with the crumbled bacon and Gorgonzola cheese crumbles. Toss the ingredients together before serving.

About this recipe

Brussels sprouts, the misunderstood vegetable that has gained quite a bad reputation over the years. Many people associate them with a bitter taste and unpleasant smell. But what if I told you there's a way to transform these little green gems into a mouthwatering dish that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for more?

The Magic of Bacon

Let's start by introducing the magical ingredient that can make even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts lovers: bacon. Yes, you heard it right. Bacon has the power to turn these humble vegetables into a savory delight. Its smoky and salty flavor complements the mild bitterness of Brussels sprouts perfectly, creating a harmonious combination that will leave you craving for more.

How to Prepare Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts

Now that we've established the star of our dish, let me walk you through the simple steps to prepare this delectable side dish.

Step 1: Bacon-Infused Goodness

Start by frying some bacon until it becomes crispy and releases its flavorful oils. The sizzling sound and irresistible aroma will make your taste buds tingle with anticipation.

Step 2: Brussels Sprouts Transformation

While the bacon is cooking, prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and removing any outer leaves that look wilted or discolored. Cut the sprouts in half, lengthwise, to expose their tender inner layers.

Step 3: The Perfect Sauté

Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain any excess grease. In the same pan, add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down, and let them cook in the bacon drippings. This will infuse them with a rich and smoky flavor.

Step 4: A Touch of Blue Cheese

When the Brussels sprouts have developed a beautiful caramelized crust, it's time to introduce another flavor powerhouse – blue cheese. Crumble some blue cheese on top of the sprouts and let it melt, creating a creamy and tangy element that perfectly balances the dish.

A Delicious Transformation

Who would have thought that Brussels sprouts could undergo such a delicious transformation? With the help of bacon and blue cheese, these once-dreaded vegetables become a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So next time you come across Brussels sprouts at the grocery store, don't shy away. Embrace the magic of bacon and blue, and let your taste buds be pleasantly surprised!

Conclusion

Brussels sprouts are often misunderstood, but with the right ingredients and preparation, they can become a culinary masterpiece. Bacon and blue cheese work their magic to transform these little green gems into a savory and indulgent side dish that will impress even the skeptics. So don't be afraid to give Brussels sprouts another chance. You might just discover a new favorite.

Frequently asked questions

. Are Brussels sprouts good for you?

Absolutely! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option. It will still add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

. How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are cooked?

The Brussels sprouts should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight crunch. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

. Can I substitute the blue cheese with another type of cheese?

Of course! If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can try using goat cheese, feta, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the Brussels sprouts. The dish will still be delicious and packed with flavor.

. Can I make this dish in advance?

While it's best to enjoy Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts fresh off the stove, you can prepare the bacon and Brussels sprouts ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

. Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and add your favorite ingredients such as roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or toasted nuts for an extra layer of flavor.

. Can I reheat Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts?

You can reheat the dish in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind that the Brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispiness. It's best to enjoy them fresh if possible.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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