These Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam are the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors. Roasted Brussels sprouts become crispy and caramelized, while the homemade bacon jam adds a deliciously rich, tangy topping. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and makes a great side for any occasion.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 12g
(Values may vary depending on exact ingredient choices and portions.)
Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 500 g (about 1 lb) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Bacon Jam:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional, for heat)
How to Make Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam
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Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet, cut side down, for maximum crispiness.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy. -
Make the Bacon Jam:
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the bacon jam.
In a medium skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving a little bit of bacon grease in the pan. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. -
Prepare the Jam:
Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and chili flakes (if using).
Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir to combine.
Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble the Dish:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the bacon jam generously over the Brussels sprouts.
Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover Brussels sprouts and bacon jam in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the Brussels sprouts may lose their crispy texture once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the bacon jam ahead of time?
A: Yes! The bacon jam can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just reheat it before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can substitute the bacon with a plant-based alternative or skip the bacon altogether, though it will lose the savory depth that the bacon provides.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bacon jam for a spicy kick.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A: Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen Brussels sprouts if necessary. Just be sure to roast them from frozen to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
These Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam are an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The crispy sprouts paired with the sweet, savory, and tangy bacon jam make for a unique and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
