Caramelized Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

WHAT ARE BRUSSELS SPROUTS?

Brussels sprouts are a member of the Brassicaceae vegetable family, such as cauliflower and kale. They get their name because they were cultivated in Brussels, Belgium in the 1500's. Remember to always capitalize Brussels sprouts and that there is an "s" at the end of Brussels.

Brussels Sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious vegetable to add to your diet. They have many health benefits, including decreasing inflammation, improving blood sugar levels, and reducing the risk of cancer. Roast, boil, saute, or bake and add them to pasta, frittatas, salads, soups, or pasta, the options are endless.

INGREDIENTS FOR CARAMELIZED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BACON

• Bacon
• Brussels sprouts
• Fresh orange juice
• Shallot
• Olive oil
• Stone ground mustard
• Pure maple syrup
• Sherry or apple cider vinegar
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Parmesan, Parmigiano-Reggiano

HOW TO MAKE CARAMELIZED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BACON

• Prepare the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the base and cutting in half lengthwise.
• Puree the orange juice, shallot, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, and salt in a food processor.
• Taste for seasoning; set aside.
• In a 12-inch skillet, fry the bacon until crispy, drain on a paper towel, and chop; set aside.
• In a small bowl lined with foil, drain the bacon grease, except for 2 Tbsp.
• Turn the heat to medium-high, add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down, until browned; about 5 minutes. (If your pan is smaller, do this in two batches with more bacon grease the second time).
• Add the pureed maple-orange mixture to the pan and gently stir the Brussels sprouts to coat with the mixture.
• Continue cooking for about 2 minutes, stirring, until caramelized.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Remove from heat and toss with the chopped bacon.
• Garnish with shaved or grated Parmesan.

CAN THIS BE MADE INTO A MAIN DISH?

• ABSOLUTELY! Mix with some cooked penne pasta, drizzle with some olive oil, and top with shaved or grated Parmesan. Delicious and easy!

My youngest son can sometimes be the pickiest eater. I was surprised when he loved this dish and ate his entire serving. Maybe it had something to do with the bacon? And the maple-orange sauce? YUM.

OTHER RECIPES YOU MIGHT LIKE:

• Warm Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
• Warm Green Beans and Red Potatoes with Basil Vinaigrette