Bella’s Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Crispy, Savory Delight
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, conjuring images of soggy, bitter vegetables. But when prepared correctly, especially with the magic of bacon, they transform into a culinary delight. This recipe, which I affectionately call “Bella’s Brussels Sprouts with Bacon,” is designed to convert even the staunchest Brussels sprout skeptics. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smoky, salty goodness of bacon, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
This recipe emphasizes crispness and balancing flavors. We’re not just boiling or steaming these little cabbages; we’re roasting them to perfection, caramelizing their outer leaves and bringing out their natural sweetness. The bacon drippings, rendered from crispy bacon, coat the sprouts, adding a rich, savory depth that complements their slightly nutty flavor. A touch of balsamic glaze at the end provides a hint of acidity and sweetness, completing the dish and elevating it to a whole new level.
**Why This Recipe Works:**
* **Roasting is Key:** Roasting Brussels sprouts is the best way to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a delicious, slightly sweet flavor that balances the bitterness often associated with these vegetables.
* **Bacon is the MVP:** Bacon adds a smoky, salty, and umami-rich element that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly. The rendered bacon fat coats the sprouts, infusing them with flavor and helping them crisp up in the oven.
* **Balsamic Glaze is the Secret Weapon:** A drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the bacon and balancing the flavors perfectly. It also adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish.
* **Simplicity is Genius:** This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it easy to prepare even on a busy weeknight.
**Ingredients You’ll Need:**
* **1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts:** Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and relatively uniform in size. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender. Avoid sprouts that are yellowing or have loose leaves.
* **6-8 slices bacon:** Use your favorite type of bacon, but thicker-cut bacon is recommended for its heartier flavor and texture. Applewood smoked bacon adds a particularly delicious dimension to this dish.
* **2 tablespoons olive oil:** Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but any good-quality olive oil will work.
* **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:** Garlic powder adds a subtle garlicky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
* **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste:** Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
* **2 tablespoons balsamic glaze:** Balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. You can find it at most grocery stores, or you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
**Equipment You’ll Need:**
* Large bowl
* Cutting board
* Chef’s knife
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts.
* Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any outer leaves that are yellowed or damaged. This ensures the best taste and texture.
* Using a sharp knife, trim the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise. For larger sprouts, you can quarter them to ensure even cooking. Cutting them in half also helps them to brown nicely in the oven.
**2. Cook the Bacon:**
* Place the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bacon to prevent it from burning.
* Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. This will help the bacon stay crispy.
* Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet. These drippings are liquid gold and will add incredible flavor to the Brussels sprouts. Be careful when handling hot bacon grease.
**3. Toss the Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Drippings and Seasonings:**
* In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the reserved bacon drippings. Toss well to coat the sprouts evenly. Make sure all the sprouts are glistening with the bacon fat.
* Add the olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss again to combine, ensuring that the sprouts are evenly seasoned. Don’t be afraid to season generously; the Brussels sprouts can handle it.
**4. Roast the Brussels Sprouts:**
* Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Using parchment paper will make clean up easier.
* Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown, with slightly charred edges. Flip the sprouts halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The roasting time may vary depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts and your oven.
**5. Crumble the Bacon and Finish the Dish:**
* While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces. You can use your fingers or a knife to crumble the bacon.
* Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl.
* Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the roasted Brussels sprouts. The heat from the sprouts will slightly warm the bacon, releasing its aroma and flavor.
* Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts and bacon. Use a light hand, as a little balsamic glaze goes a long way.
* Serve immediately and enjoy! These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, when they are at their crispiest and most flavorful.
**Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:**
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Overcrowding will steam the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them, resulting in a soggy texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
* **Use High Heat:** Roasting at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) is crucial for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Char Them:** A little charring is a good thing! It adds a delicious smoky flavor and enhances the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.
* **Adjust Seasoning to Taste:** Taste the Brussels sprouts after roasting and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, roast the Brussels sprouts and then top with the bacon and balsamic glaze.
* **Add other Ingredients:** Feel free to experiment with other ingredients, such as toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts), dried cranberries, or grated Parmesan cheese.
**Variations:**
* **Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:** Substitute the balsamic glaze with maple syrup for a sweeter flavor.
* **Spicy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
* **Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Parmesan:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.
* **Vegan Brussels Sprouts (Without Bacon):** For a vegan version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or avocado oil for roasting. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon. Consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness to the balsamic glaze.
**Serving Suggestions:**
* Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
* Add to salads for a hearty and flavorful component.
* Serve as an appetizer or snack.
* Include in a holiday buffet.
**Storage and Reheating:**
* **Storage:** Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they are best eaten immediately, they can be reheated. The texture may change slightly.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftover Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Microwaving is also an option, but the sprouts may become soggy.
**Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):**
* Calories: 250-350 (depending on the amount of bacon and balsamic glaze used)
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 5-10g
* Cholesterol: 30-50mg
* Sodium: 300-500mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
* Fiber: 5-7g
* Sugar: 5-10g
* Protein: 8-12g
**Why I call them Bella’s Brussels Sprouts:**
This recipe is inspired by my grandmother, Bella. She was a master of simple, flavorful cooking, and she always knew how to make vegetables taste delicious. While she may not have used balsamic glaze (it wasn’t as common back then!), her secret was always generous seasoning and a little bit of love. I’ve adapted her basic method of roasting vegetables and added the bacon and balsamic glaze to create this truly special dish. Every time I make these Brussels sprouts, I think of her and her wonderful cooking.
**Conclusion:**
Bella’s Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a testament to the fact that even the most disliked vegetables can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. This recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to impress. So, give it a try and discover the magic of roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon! You might just become a Brussels sprout convert.
**Enjoy!**