Table of Contents
- 0.1 Delicious Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe With Brown Sugar and Bacon
- 0.2 Why Caramelization Enhances the Flavor of Brussels Sprouts
- 1 Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
- 2 Delicious Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe With Brown Sugar and Bacon
- 3 Tips for Achieving the Perfect Baked Brussel
- 4 Serving Suggestions for Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
- 5 Variations and Substitutions for the Recipe
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions About Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
- 7 I Love Brussels
- 8 Join the Recipe Newsletter!
Looking for a quick and delicious veggie side dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight? Look no further than this irresistible caramelized Brussels sprouts recipe with brown sugar and bacon.
Delicious Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe With Brown Sugar and Bacon
When I was a little girl, you couldn’t pay me enough to eat a Brussel. My mother loved them, though, so we had them … All. The. Time. Fast forward a few (a lot) of years, and I can’t resist them little guys. I love them so much that I have an entire section in my recipe card box for them. Here’s one of my favorites.
Why Caramelization Enhances the Flavor of Brussels Sprouts
Caramelization is a cooking technique that involves heating sugar until it turns into a rich, golden brown color. When applied to Brussels sprouts, caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.
Brussels sprouts, when cooked properly, have a slightly bitter taste. However, when they are caramelized, the bitterness is balanced out by the sweetness of the caramelized sugar, resulting in a harmonious and delicious flavor profile. The caramelization process also adds a delightful crispiness to the outer layers of the Brussels sprouts, creating a textural contrast that enhances the overall eating experience.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Not only are caramelized Brussels sprouts with brown sugar and bacon incredibly delicious, but they are also packed with numerous health benefits. Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
These miniature cabbage-like vegetables are a great source of Vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. They are also high in Vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, Brussels sprouts are a good source of folate, iron, and potassium.
Furthermore, Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or improve digestion. The fiber content in Brussels sprouts promotes feelings of fullness, which can help with portion control and weight management.
Delicious Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe With Brown Sugar and Bacon
Brown sugar and bacon complement these Brussels perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 medium onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon until crispy (or desired doneness). I like to cook the onion with the bacon fat (optional). Once cooked, drain the fat and crumble the bacon into small pieces. You can also cut the bacon prior to frying into the size chunks you'd like (this is what I do).
- In a small saucepan, heat the brown sugar over medium heat until it melts and starts to caramelize. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the caramelized brown sugar over the Brussels sprouts and toss until they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the caramelized Brussels sprouts and give it a gentle toss to incorporate the flavors.
- Serve the caramelized Brussels sprouts with brown sugar and bacon immediately while they are still warm and crispy.
Notes
Don't be impatient with the caramelization process. Melt it over low heat and be patient.
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Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
4Amount Per Serving Calories 186Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 11mgSodium 294mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 3gSugar 8gProtein 7g
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Baked Brussel
- Do not overcrowd the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. Leave enough space between them to allow air circulation, which will help them caramelize properly.
- Keep a close eye on the Brussels sprouts while they are roasting to prevent them from burning.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Serving Suggestions for Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized Brussels sprouts with brown sugar and bacon make a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions to get your creative juices flowing:
- Serve the caramelized Brussels sprouts alongside a juicy roasted chicken or turkey for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Pair them with grilled steak or pork chops for a delicious and flavorful combination.
- Add them to a salad for a burst of sweetness and crunchiness.
- Serve them as a side dish for a holiday feast, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
No matter how you choose to serve them, be prepared for compliments and requests for seconds!
Variations and Substitutions for the Recipe
While the combination of caramelized Brussels sprouts, brown sugar, and bacon is truly irresistible, feel free to get creative and make some variations or substitutions to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give your caramelized Brussels sprouts a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or maple-glazed, to add a unique twist to the recipe.
- For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the bacon altogether and add some toasted nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for added crunch and flavor.
Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking and let your creativity shine!
Frequently Asked Questions About Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While caramelized Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving. However, keep in mind that reheating may affect the texture and crispiness of the Brussels sprouts. - How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftover caramelized Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, they may lose some of their crispiness upon reheating.
I Love Brussels
This delicious caramelized Brussels sprouts recipe with brown sugar and bacon is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the crispy texture, makes it a standout side dish that will elevate any meal. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it also packs a nutritional punch, thanks to the health benefits of Brussels sprouts. So why not indulge in a dish that is both delicious and good for you?