Introduction
Bacon Brussels sprouts offer a delightful combination of savory and earthy flavors, making them a favorite side dish for any meal. The richness of crispy bacon perfectly complements the bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a mouthwatering experience that elevates your dining table.
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With the right balance of seasoning and cooking techniques, you'll achieve tender sprouts with a caramelized finish and a savory crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Brussels sprouts are the star of the dish, providing a delightful bitterness that balances the richness of the bacon. When cooked properly, they become tender while retaining a slight crunch, making them a perfect vehicle for flavor. - 6 slices of bacon, chopped
Bacon adds a savory, smoky element to the dish. When rendered, the fat coats the Brussels sprouts, enhancing their flavor and helping them to crisp up beautifully in the oven. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil aids in roasting the sprouts evenly and contributes a rich mouthfeel. It also helps the bacon to crisp up without burning, ensuring the dish has a great texture. - 1 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of both the Brussels sprouts and the bacon, ensuring that every bite is savory and satisfying. It also helps to draw moisture out of the sprout as they roast, concentrating their flavor. - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a gentle heat and enhances the overall flavor profile. It complements the smokiness of the bacon and the slight bitterness of the sprouts, tying the dish together. - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar introduces a sweet-tart element that balances the savory richness of the bacon and the spring-like freshness of the sprouts. Drizzling it near the end of cooking enhances the dish without overwhelming the flavors.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven is essential for achieving that perfect blister on the Brussels sprouts. A hot oven ensures they roast and caramelize properly, enhancing their natural sweetness and bringing out the best flavors. Waiting for the oven to reach the right temperature is a crucial step in ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
Trimming the sprouts allows them to cook more evenly and reduces any tough exterior. Halving them increases the surface area that comes into contact with the pan, promoting better caramelization and crunchy texture. This step is vital for achieving the desired flavor and texture.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Combining all the ingredients ensures that every sprout is evenly coated in the olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper. The bacon will render its fat during cooking, further flavoring the sprouts and aiding in their browning. This step guarantees cohesive flavors in every bite.
Step 4: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Spreading the Brussels sprouts and bacon on the baking sheet without overcrowding allows hot air to circulate around them. This promotes even cooking and crisping. They should be laid flat to avoid steaming, which can make them soggy instead of crunchy.
Step 5: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Roasting at a high temperature creates that delightful caramelization, while stirring ensures uniform cooking and browning. The mixture of crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts will develop a beautiful color and texture, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
Step 6: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to combine before serving.
Drizzling balsamic vinegar at the end adds a fresh acidity that cuts through the richness of the bacon and complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully. Tossing helps to distribute the vinegar evenly, enhancing the final flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Crispy Bacon: The Secret to Flavorful Roasting
The bacon in this recipe not only provides a rich flavor but also renders down and bathes the sprouts in its savory fat. This dual-purpose role makes it a key component, as the rendered fat helps achieve that sought-after crisp texture. The transformation of bacon from slice to crispy morsel is an essential part of creating this culinary delight.
Brussels Sprouts: A Versatile Vegetable
Brussels sprouts are not only nutritious but also incredibly adaptable. They can be roasted, sautéed, or grilled, and pair well with various flavors from sweet to tangy. In this recipe, their natural bitterness is beautifully complemented by the smoky richness of bacon and the tang of balsamic vinegar, showcasing their versatility in flavor integration.
The Perfect Balance: Acidity and Richness
The introduction of balsamic vinegar at the end is crucial for elevating the dish. The acidity cuts through the richness of the bacon fat, preventing the dish from being overly heavy. This balance ensures that the flavors remain vibrant and engaging, making every bite a harmonious explosion on the palate.
FAQs
What can I do if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
For overly bitter Brussels sprouts, consider blanching them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before roasting. This can help reduce their bitterness, allowing for a sweeter flavor balance when combined with bacon.
How can I ensure my bacon gets crispy while cooking?
To achieve crispy bacon, make sure your oven is fully preheated, and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. The hot air circulation is vital for rendering the fat and achieving that satisfying crunch.
What if I want to add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes; just ensure they have similar cooking times to the Brussels sprouts. Cut them into similar sizes for even roasting.
Can I substitute the bacon for another protein?
Yes, turkey bacon or pancetta can be good substitutes if you are looking for a lighter option or different texture. Keep in mind, however, that cooking times may vary depending on the fat content of the alternative protein.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are overcooked?
If the Brussels sprouts become mushy from overcooking, try adding them into a salad with a crunchy texture or using them in a stir-fry dish where their softened texture can be balanced out.
How do I enhance the flavor of the Brussels sprouts without overpowering them?
Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary as you roast them for a fresh aroma that doesn’t overpower the natural taste of the sprouts. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors.
Conclusion
Bacon Brussels sprouts are a delicious addition to any meal, offering a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that will delight your family and guests. They are easy to prepare and make a statement on your table.
With just a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, this dish brings out the best that Brussels sprouts can offer. Enjoy making this simple yet indulgent recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite herbs and spices!
Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice for Cozy Meals
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken thighs to the cooker.
- In a bowl, mix the rice, broth, onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Check the chicken for doneness.
- Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
