These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a tasty mix of sweet and tangy flavors, all boosted by crispy bacon. It’s a wonderful side dish that makes vegetable lovers out of everyone!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? 😄 I love how the maple syrup gives a nice glaze to the sprouts. It’s so simple to throw together, and the result is just yum! Perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this dish. If you can’t find them, you could use green beans or asparagus as a different but still delicious veggie alternative.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a wonderful crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a great substitute. Vegan bacon can work too if you prefer a plant-based option.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives a tangy kick. If you’re out of balsamic, red or white wine vinegar can be substituted, though you might want to add a touch more maple syrup for sweetness.
Maple Syrup: Real maple syrup is the best for flavor. If you need a substitute, you can use honey or agave syrup, but the taste will slightly differ.
How Do I Make Sure My Brussels Sprouts Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to great Brussels sprouts is achieving that crispy outer layer while keeping them tender inside. Start by cutting them in half for even cooking. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cook the bacon first to render the fat — this adds so much flavor!
- When you cook the sprouts, place them cut-side down in the hot pan. This helps to caramelize them beautifully.
- Don’t rush! Let them brown without stirring for a few minutes, then stir to cook them evenly.
If you follow these steps, you’ll have flavorful and delicious Brussels sprouts every time!
Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the bacon and Brussels sprouts, followed by an additional 5-10 minutes to mix in the glaze and finish cooking. It’s a quick and scrumptious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the tasty bacon fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
Next, add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat already in it. Place the Brussels sprouts cut side down in the pan. Let them cook without stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing the cut sides to get a nice brown and caramelized color.
3. Cook Until Tender:
After the initial browning, stir the Brussels sprouts and keep cooking them for another 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and browned on most sides. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!
4. Prepare the Balsamic-Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar and pure maple syrup until well combined. This sweet and tangy glaze will add loads of flavor!
5. Combine and Cook Further:
Pour the balsamic-maple mixture over the Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the sprouts are coated well. Let this cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the glaze thickens a bit.
6. Season and Add Bacon:
Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon to a serving dish and serve hot. Enjoy this delightful sweet and savory side dish with your meal!
This recipe is sure to be a hit, combining the savory crispiness of bacon with tender Brussels sprouts and a rich maple-balsamic glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Enjoy every bite! 😃
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture before cooking.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can easily include other vegetables, such as sliced carrots or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time so that everything cooks evenly and becomes tender.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use olive oil or a plant-based butter to get that richness. Adding some smoked paprika can help provide a similar depth of flavor.