Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Sweet and Savory Dish

If you’re seeking a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory, you’ve found it! Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts transform this often-misunderstood veggie into a delightful treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an eye-catching, delicious side dish. Join me as I guide you through easy steps, tips, and creative variations. You’ll impress your family and friends with this fantastic recipe that’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb Brussels sprouts

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Optional Ingredients

– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup chopped pecans

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

To make Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, you need a few key items. First, grab 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Look for bright green ones, as they taste better. Next, you need 3 tablespoons of olive oil. This gives a great base for roasting. You’ll also need 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup for that sweet touch. It’s important to use pure maple syrup, not the imitation stuff. Lastly, add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This will balance the sweetness nicely.

You can also spice things up with optional ingredients. A pinch of cayenne pepper, just 1/4 teaspoon, adds some heat. Salt and pepper will help enhance the flavors. For added crunch, use 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley will make your dish pop with color.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a sweet and savory dish that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat helps the Brussels sprouts roast well.

2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly.

Mixing and Roasting

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with:

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Toss everything well. Make sure each sprout is coated.

2. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps them roast well without sticking.

3. Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through. They should be caramelized and tender when done.

Final Touches

1. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven. Immediately sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped pecans over the top. Toss lightly to mix.

2. Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Glaze

To make the glaze just right, you can adjust the sweetness with maple syrup. Use more syrup for a sweeter dish or less for a milder taste. Maple syrup adds a nice depth to the flavor. Next, balance the sweetness with apple cider vinegar. This vinegar brings a tangy touch that cuts through the syrup. A tablespoon does the trick, but feel free to tweak it to suit your taste.

Roasting Techniques

For great caramelization, roast the Brussels sprouts at 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps them brown nicely and develop flavor. Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet. If they are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. This means less crispiness and less flavor. Lay them out in a single layer to let the heat circulate.

Enhancing Texture

To get that perfect crunch, prep your Brussels sprouts well. Trim off the ends and halve them. This helps them cook evenly and reach that ideal texture. Toasting pecans is another way to elevate the flavor and add crunch. Simply place them in a dry pan over low heat. Stir often until they smell nutty and are golden brown. Combine them with the sprouts right after roasting for a delightful contrast.

Variations

Flavor Boosts

You can easily enhance your maple glazed Brussels sprouts. One way is by adding garlic or shallots. These ingredients bring depth and a savory touch. Simply mince a few cloves of garlic or slice shallots. Toss them in with the Brussels sprouts before roasting.

Another great option is to incorporate bacon. The crispy, salty flavor of bacon adds richness to the dish. Chop a few strips of bacon and mix them in before roasting. The fat will help crisp up the sprouts while adding a smoky flavor.

Dietary Substitutions

If you want a vegan-friendly version, swap out the maple syrup for agave nectar. This keeps the sweetness but keeps it plant-based. Also, use olive oil instead of butter to stay true to vegan cooking.

For those needing gluten-free options, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added ingredients, like bacon or sauces, are gluten-free as well. You can enjoy this dish without any worries.

Serving Suggestions

Maple glazed Brussels sprouts pair well with proteins like chicken or fish. The sweet and savory flavor complements grilled or roasted meats. Serve these sprouts alongside a juicy chicken breast for a balanced meal.

These sprouts also shine as a holiday side dish. Their rich flavors and beautiful colors make them a festive addition. Serve them at your next family gathering or holiday dinner to impress your guests.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To keep your Maple Glazed Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Let them cool first before sealing. This helps prevent moisture and keeps them tasty. They can last up to three days in the fridge.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, use the oven for the best texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until warm. This keeps them crisp and avoids sogginess. You can also use a microwave, but they may lose some crunch.

Freezing Options

If you want to store your Brussels sprouts longer, freezing is a great option. First, blanch them in boiling water for two minutes. Then, cool in ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and pack them in freezer bags. They can last up to six months in the freezer. When ready to use, just thaw and roast them as usual. This method keeps their flavor and texture intact.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are small, green, and full of nutrients. They are low in calories but rich in vitamins. One serving, about 1 cup, has:

– Calories: 38

– Protein: 3 g

– Fat: 0.5 g

– Carbohydrates: 8 g

– Fiber: 3 g

– Vitamin C: 124% of the daily value

– Vitamin K: 137% of the daily value

These sprouts help support your immune system. They also promote healthy digestion. The fiber in Brussels sprouts keeps you full longer. Plus, they contain antioxidants, which fight free radicals in your body.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. They can save time and effort. However, they may not taste as fresh as the ones you buy fresh. Frozen sprouts often have a softer texture. This can affect the crunchiness you want in your dish. If you use frozen, roast them longer to get them crispy. Thaw them before cooking to help them roast better.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can easily prepare Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time. Here are some tips:

– Prep the Brussels sprouts: Trim and halve them a day before. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

– Make the glaze: Mix the maple syrup, olive oil, vinegar, and spices. Store the glaze separately to keep flavors fresh.

– Roast before serving: You can roast them a few hours ahead. Just reheat in the oven before serving. This way, they stay tasty and warm.

These steps help you enjoy a delicious dish with less stress on busy days.

This blog post showed you how to make Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, plus step-by-step instructions. Tips helped you refine your roasting and glazing skills. We explored tasty variations and noted proper storage methods.

Remember, cooking is fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. Enjoy your delicious dish and share it with others. Happy cookin