Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Perfect for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that never fails to impress and delight guests is Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the savory crunch of bacon and the nutty, slightly bitter flavor of Brussels sprouts. The result is a side dish that perfectly complements any Thanksgiving feast. Whether you’re looking to add a new favorite to your holiday table or simply want to try something different, these maple roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients for Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

To make this flavorful and festive dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 6 slices of bacon (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of chopped pecans (optional, for added crunch)
• 1/4 cup of dried cranberries (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

How to Make Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Follow these steps to prepare and roast your Brussels sprouts to perfection:

1. Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:

• Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the ends. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
• Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.

2. Preparing the Bacon:

• In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Mixing the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon:

• In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the reserved bacon fat. If there isn’t enough bacon fat, you can add a little olive oil to ensure the sprouts are well-coated.
• Add the crispy bacon pieces to the bowl and mix well.
• Drizzle the olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the oil, syrup, and vinegar mixture.

4. Roasting the Brussels Sprouts:

• Spread the Brussels sprouts mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure the Brussels sprouts are not overcrowded, as this will ensure they roast evenly and become crispy.
• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• The Brussels sprouts are done when they are tender on the inside and caramelized on the outside. They should have a nice golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture.

5. Adding Final Touches:

• If you’re using chopped pecans and dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the roasted Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will give the dish added texture and a burst of sweetness.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Brussels sprouts cool slightly before transferring them to a serving dish.

6. Serving the Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:

• Serve the roasted Brussels sprouts warm, garnished with additional chopped pecans or dried cranberries if desired.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving mains like turkey, ham, or roast beef, and is also a great accompaniment to other side dishes such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole.

About the Main Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts:
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. They are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. When roasted, Brussels sprouts develop a delightful nutty flavor and crispy texture, which is why they are so popular in many roasted vegetable dishes. Their slightly bitter taste is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup and the savory flavor of bacon in this recipe.

Bacon:
Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture to this dish. It is made from pork belly and is typically cured and smoked, giving it its distinctive taste. While bacon is often considered indulgent, it adds a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Brussels sprouts and maple syrup. Using a moderate amount of bacon in this recipe ensures that you get the delicious flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Maple Syrup:
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener made from the sap of sugar maple trees. It is commonly used in North American cuisine and is known for its rich, sweet flavor and amber color. Pure maple syrup is free from additives and provides a unique sweetness that complements both sweet and savory dishes. In this recipe, maple syrup helps to caramelize the Brussels sprouts and adds a touch of sweetness that balances the bitterness of the vegetables and the saltiness of the bacon.

Balsamic Vinegar:
Balsamic vinegar is a dark, concentrated vinegar made from grape must. It originates from Italy and is known for its rich, slightly sweet flavor. Balsamic vinegar adds acidity and depth to the dish, helping to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup and the richness of the bacon. It also aids in caramelizing the Brussels sprouts during roasting, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Olive Oil:
Olive oil is a healthy fat that is commonly used in cooking and baking. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and contains antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases. In this recipe, olive oil helps to coat the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they roast evenly and become crispy. It also contributes to the overall flavor of the dish.

Pecans:
Pecans are a type of tree nut that is native to North America. They have a rich, buttery flavor and a crunchy texture, making them a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. In this recipe, chopped pecans add an extra layer of texture and flavor, complementing the roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. Pecans are also a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.

Dried Cranberries:
Dried cranberries are a popular dried fruit that is often used in baking and cooking. They have a sweet-tart flavor and a chewy texture, adding a burst of sweetness to the dish. In this recipe, dried cranberries provide a nice contrast to the savory bacon and earthy Brussels sprouts. They also add a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. Cranberries are rich in vitamins C and E, as well as antioxidants.

By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and festive side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. The combination of maple syrup, bacon, and Brussels sprouts results in a dish that is full of flavor and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors and the satisfaction of creating a memorable dish that will become a favorite at your holiday table. Happy Thanksgiving!