The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the sweet scent of maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard wafts through your kitchen, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the Brussels sprouts, beautifully roasted to perfection, their edges caramelized and their insides tender, all brought together in a delightful medley that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Can you picture it? This Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving dinner or whipping it up for a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe will elevate your table and leave everyone asking for seconds, or at least for your secret ingredient!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley combines ease of preparation with bold flavors that impress everyone.
- This dish looks stunning with vibrant colors that entice even the pickiest eaters.
- The combination of sweet and savory makes it perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual dinners.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost any main course!
Ingredients for Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm and bright green sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best; its richness enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Dijon Mustard: Opt for smooth Dijon mustard to add tangy depth to the medley.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for natural sweetness; avoid imitation syrups!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil helps with roasting and adds flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—it’s like giving your veggies a comfy bed for roasting!
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss them into a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re well coated like they’re going on a tropical vacation!
Step 3: Chop That Bacon
Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces. You want pieces that are big enough to be flavorful but small enough to allow even cooking—think Goldilocks proportions.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon onto your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with maple syrup and spoonfuls of Dijon mustard over everything. Toss it all together until every sprout is smothered in that glorious mixture!
Step 5: Roast Away
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Stir halfway through so everything gets evenly roasted—think of it as giving those veggies a little dance party.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once done, remove from the oven and transfer to plates. Drizzle more maple syrup or mustard if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy with friends or family—it’s hard not to smile when you see everyone diving into this delicious dish.
Now you have everything you need to create an unforgettable meal centered around this Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley! It’s time to gather around the table, share some laughs, and dig into this delightful combination that will surely win hearts (and stomachs) everywhere you serve it!
You Must Know
- This Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley is not just a side dish; it’s a festive party on your plate.
- The sweet and tangy flavors dance together, transforming the humble Brussels sprout into a superstar!
- Perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the bacon until crispy, then remove it and sauté the Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat for maximum flavor. Add the maple syrup and Dijon mustard midway through to caramelize beautifully, creating that mouthwatering glaze.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for green beans or asparagus if you’re feeling adventurous. Add chopped nuts for crunch or sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra flavor boost!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, keeping that delicious crispiness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts, don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing; give them space to breathe.
- Use high-quality maple syrup for richer flavor and balance with a dash of apple cider vinegar if desired.
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning!
Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends come over, and I swear their eyes light up like kids on Christmas morning. The combination of flavors always sparks compliments and requests for seconds!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley?
To prepare Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley, start by trimming and halving fresh Brussels sprouts. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove it and sauté the Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat. Add a mix of Dijon mustard and maple syrup for flavor. Toss in the cooked bacon at the end for a delicious finish. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts while adding a savory crunch from the bacon.
Can I make Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley ahead of time. Cook the sprouts and bacon, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet, adding a little extra maple syrup if needed. This dish retains its flavors well, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What are some variations for Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley?
You can easily customize your Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley by adding different ingredients. For instance, toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts for added crunch. You might also consider incorporating shallots or garlic for extra flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve that savory taste without meat.
What pairs well with Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley?
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork. It also complements hearty grain dishes such as quinoa or farro. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal. This medley adds vibrant color and flavor to any plate, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Conclusion for Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley:
In summary, Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout & Bacon Medley offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any meal. The preparation is straightforward and can be customized to suit your preferences. By utilizing fresh ingredients like Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, this dish not only tastes great but also looks appealing on your table. Whether you make it ahead of time or serve it fresh, this medley will surely impress your family and friends.
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout Medley
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the delightful harmony of roasted Brussels sprouts with tangy Dijon and sweet maple syrup in this simple yet elegant dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the Dijon mustard and maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts, then toss to combine.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup or Dijon if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before roasting. - If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit any meat alternatives and enhance flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
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