Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate

Brussels sprouts, the miniature cabbages that often get a bad rap, can be transformed into a mouthwatering dish when roasted with maple syrup and crispy bacon.

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Prep
10 min
Cook
20 min
Total
30 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. These instructions will guide you on how to make delicious roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon:

  2. Begin by preparing a pound of whole, clean, and trimmed Brussels sprouts.

  3. Cook the bacon pieces together with the sprouts until they become perfectly crispy.

  4. Season the Brussels sprouts and bacon with a simple combination of salt and pepper.

  5. Keep the sprouts moist and help the seasonings stick by adding olive oil.

  6. Add a touch of sweetness to this savory side dish by drizzling pure maple syrup over the other ingredients.

  7. Now, let's break down the steps for making these roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon:

  8. Step 1: Trim the Brussels sprouts, and if they're large, cut them in half.

  9. Step 2: Transfer the sprouts to a large bowl and toss them with the remaining ingredients.

  10. Step 3: Arrange the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.

  11. Step 4: Roast them in the oven until the bacon becomes crispy and the sprouts caramelize.

  12. Step 5: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.

  13. Step 6: When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat the sprouts either in the microwave or in the oven.

  14. That's it! Now you can savor these delicious roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon.

About this recipe

Brussels sprouts, the miniature cabbages that often get a bad rap, can be transformed into a mouthwatering dish when roasted with maple syrup and crispy bacon. This delightful combination of flavors creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion.

The Magic of Roasting

Roasting is an art that brings out the best in vegetables. It caramelizes their natural sugars, intensifying their flavors and creating a delightful crispy texture. When Brussels sprouts are roasted, they undergo a magical transformation. The once bitter and bland sprouts become tender and slightly sweet, with a hint of nuttiness.

The Sweet-Savory Symphony

Maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the roasted Brussels sprouts, enhancing their natural flavors. The rich, deep flavor of maple syrup complements the slight bitterness of the sprouts, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes. This combination is a match made in heaven, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.

Crispy Bacon Perfection

Bacon, the beloved ingredient that adds a smoky, salty punch to any dish, takes these roasted Brussels sprouts to a whole new level. The crispy bacon adds texture and depth of flavor, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Its savory goodness complements the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a delightful medley of tastes.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

When roasting Brussels sprouts, it's important to choose fresh, firm sprouts. Look for sprouts that are vibrant green with tightly packed leaves. Trim the ends and remove any yellowed outer leaves before roasting. For an extra crispy texture, make sure to spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, giving them enough space to cook evenly.

In Conclusion

Maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon is a delightful side dish that will convert even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts haters. The combination of the sweet maple syrup, savory bacon, and perfectly roasted sprouts creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself how a little bit of roasting magic can transform these humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

While maple syrup is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or brown sugar. However, keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly.

Can I omit the bacon for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

How long should I roast the Brussels sprouts?

Roast the sprouts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can roast them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain some of their crispiness.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding other roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash to create a colorful and flavorful medley.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a healthier alternative that can be used in this recipe. It will still add a smoky flavor and crispy texture to the dish.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, as frozen sprouts tend to become mushy when roasted. However, if you only have frozen sprouts on hand, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting.

What can I serve with maple roasted Brussels sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian quinoa bowl. The possibilities are endless!

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

More beef, pork & lamb

See all →