Grilled Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe

Grilled Brussels Sprouts With Bacon: A Delicious Twist to a Classic Dish

Brussels sprouts have long been known as a staple vegetable, but have you ever tried grilling them? This simple twist can take this humble vegetable to a whole new level of deliciousness. In this article, we will explore the mouthwatering combination of grilled Brussels sprouts and bacon, and how you can easily recreate this recipe at home. So, let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!

The Perfect Marriage of Flavors: Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

There’s something magical that happens when you combine the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the smoky and salty goodness of bacon. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and full of depth. The heat from the grill adds a lovely char and enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts, while the bacon lends its rich flavors and irresistible crispiness.

Grilling Brussels sprouts not only brings out their natural flavors but also adds a delightful smokiness that elevates the dish. The caramelization that occurs on the grill creates a beautiful contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender interior of the sprouts. The bacon, with its savory and slightly sweet notes, complements these flavors perfectly, creating a match made in culinary heaven.

How to Grill Brussels Sprouts to Perfection

Grilling Brussels sprouts may seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked sprouts that are bursting with flavor. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends and removing any yellowed or damaged outer leaves from the sprouts. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. For larger sprouts, you can also cut them in half to ensure even cooking.

2. Toss in Olive Oil and Seasonings

Place the Brussels sprouts in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Add your choice of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Toss the sprouts until they are well coated with the oil and seasonings.

3. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, heat it to around 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly spread and ashed over.

4. Grill the Brussels Sprouts

Place the Brussels sprouts directly on the grill grates, making sure they are in a single layer. Close the lid and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and nicely charred, turning them occasionally for even cooking.

5. Add the Bacon

While the sprouts are grilling, cook the bacon separately until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop it into small pieces.

6. Toss and Serve

Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Toss them with the crispy bacon pieces and serve hot.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

A: While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for grilling, you can use frozen ones if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before grilling.

Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

A: Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a healthier alternative, and it will still add that delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I grill the Brussels sprouts indoors?

A: Yes, you can! If you have a stovetop grill pan or an indoor electric grill, you can easily grill Brussels sprouts indoors using the same method.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the mix?

A: Of course! Grilled Brussels sprouts pair well with other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even cherry tomatoes. Get creative and mix and match your favorite veggies to create a colorful and flavorful side dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly?

A: Absolutely! If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can omit the bacon and instead add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Q: Can I use a grill basket instead of placing the sprouts directly on the grates?

A: Absolutely! If you prefer to use a grill basket, go ahead and use one. Just make sure to toss the sprouts occasionally to ensure even cooking and char.

Q: Can I use this recipe for a barbecue or picnic?

A: Absolutely! Grilled Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic addition to any barbecue or picnic spread. They are easy to make, flavorful, and can be enjoyed both hot or at room temperature.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to enjoy grilled Brussels sprouts with bacon immediately after cooking, you can prep some steps in advance. Trim and season the sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Cook the bacon separately and crumble it when needed. This way, you can save time and still enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish.

In Conclusion

Grilled Brussels sprouts with bacon is a winning combination that will delight your taste buds. The smoky flavors from the grill, the crispiness of the bacon, and the tender sprouts create a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab some Brussels sprouts, fire up the grill, and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Grilled Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe

Total40 min
Servings6

Grilled Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe compressed image1

  • 1/3 lb of bacon (, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces.)
  • 1 1/2 lbs of Brussels sprouts.
  • 2 shallots (, sliced thinly.)
  • Kosher salt.
  • Freshly ground black pepper.
  1. Fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
  3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the Brussels sprouts and set them aside.
  5. In a 10-inch skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until the fat renders and the bacon crisps.
  6. Transfer the bacon to a large bowl and remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the skillet.
  7. Add the shallots to the skillet and cook until they are lightly browned.
  8. Transfer the shallots to the bowl with the bacon.
  9. Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and toss them with the reserved bacon fat, as well as salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Cook the Brussels sprouts on the grill until they are lightly charred on each side, approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side.
  11. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the grill and transfer them to the bowl with the bacon and shallots. Toss to combine.
  12. Pour the mixture onto a serving dish and serve immediately.
4th of July, Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Grilled Vegetables, Grilling, memorial day, Pork, Vegetable Sides, Vegetables, Vegetables By Method

April

Hi, I am April & Welcome to my food blog!

Thank you for visiting my blog. We share delicious recipes to make your meals nourishing and fun. Experimenting in the kitchen and cooking is my joy!

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