Name: Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound thick-cut bacon; 2 large yellow onions; 2 large (or 6 small) shallots; 2 teaspoons garlic; ½ cup light brown sugar; ¼ cup maple syrup; ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

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The moment you take your first bite of Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts, the sensory experience is nothing short of captivating. The crunchy exterior gives way to tender insides, while the rich aroma of caramelized onions and savory bacon wafts through the air, pulling you in. With each mouthful, the sweetness of maple syrup and the tang of apple cider vinegar come together in a delightful dance, making this dish a standout side. Just picture the vibrant green Brussels sprouts, their warm golden edges glistening, topped with a luscious bacon jam that promises to elevate any meal.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts

I can’t help but think back to a cozy autumn dinner at my friend’s house. The air was crisp, and laughter seemed to hang like vapor, punctuated by the tantalizing scent of bacon wafting through the kitchen. She served these Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts, and in that moment, I knew I’d found a new favorite. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepare this stunning side dish in just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet, smoky bacon jam makes each bite a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant color and glossy sheen of roasted sprouts against rich bacon jam make for an impressive presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for the holidays, dinner parties, or just that cozy evening at home – these sprouts fit in anywhere!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by ensuring your bacon and any store-bought ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, fresh Brussels sprouts about 1 to 1 ½ inches in size for optimal roasting. If you can’t find Brussels sprouts, you can substitute with cauliflower florets for a similar texture.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This adds a rich, fruity flavor and promotes crispiness. You can use avocado oil for a slight variation or grapeseed oil for a neutral flavor.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavors and draws out moisture. Feel free to adjust to your taste, as table salt will be saltier by volume.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat; you can swap it for chili flakes if you prefer extra spice.
1 pound thick-cut bacon: Opt for high-quality bacon for a deeper flavor; turkey bacon can work as a lighter alternative, though texture will vary.
2 large yellow onions: Use these for their sweetness and depth of flavor. White onions or red onions can be substituted if needed.
2 large (or 6 small) shallots: They add a mild, sweet flavor that beautifully complements the onions. Can be swapped with more onions if you’re in a pinch.
2 teaspoons garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with aromatic zest; dried garlic powder can work in a hurry, but it won’t replicate the same flavor.
½ cup light brown sugar: This adds sweetness and enhances the caramelization. You could use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
¼ cup maple syrup: The distinct flavor of maple pairs beautifully with the savory components. If you need an alternative, honey works equally well.
⅓ cup apple cider vinegar: This provides a tangy kick; white wine vinegar is another great option.
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional): For those who love a little heat, chili powder brings a warm undertone. If you want more spice, feel free to adjust according to your taste!

How to Make Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. While it warms up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Season the Sprouts: Place your cleaned, halved Brussels sprouts onto the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the Brussels sprouts, tossing them gently to ensure they’re evenly coated. Spread them back out into a single layer, cut side down, to promote that crispy texture.

Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for them to be tender and golden brown with crispy edges. Every once in a while, steal a peek and inhale that irresistible aroma!

Fry the Bacon: While the sprouts are roasting, place your diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, around 8-10 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Caramelize the Aromatics: Carefully leave about 4 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet (it’s pure flavor!), and dispose of the rest. Now, add the finely chopped onions and shallots to the pan. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring often, until they’re beautifully caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

Combine Sweet and Savory: Mix in the minced garlic, light brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and cooked bacon to the caramelized onions and shallots. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in the chili powder at this stage. Let it all bubble together over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Finish with Roasted Sprouts: Now, it’s time to add those roasted Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated in the luscious bacon jam, taking care not to mash them. Cook for another 2 minutes just to warm everything through.

Serve Warm: Lastly, scoop the warm Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts onto a serving platter and enjoy. They are best served fresh, while that crispy texture still holds up!

Storing & Reheating

For storing, allow your Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 2 hours, but for longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze in a freezer-safe container, where they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring you don’t lose that delightful bite. The texture may soften slightly, so consider refreshing them with a dash of olive oil during reheating.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts during the roasting step; they should have a lovely crunch.
For the best flavor, use cold bacon straight from the fridge before cooking; it renders better.
If your bacon doesn’t get crispy enough, crank up the heat slightly but watch closely to prevent burning.
To keep the caramelization on the onions and shallots from stalling, stir them frequently and adjust the heat as needed.
If you’re a fan of a sweeter taste, you can add a touch more brown sugar or maple syrup to the jam for a more pronounced sweetness.
For an easy make-ahead option, prepare the bacon jam the day before and reheat it before tossing with the sprouts.

Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts not only steal the show but also offer so much versatility. The sweet and savory balance makes them a fabulous addition to your meal. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients or spices to make this dish your own! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen Brussels sprouts if you want. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting to help achieve that wonderful crispy texture. You may need to adjust the roasting time slightly as they will initially release moisture.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using mushroom soy sauce or smoked paprika for that savory, umami flavor. Consider swapping the bacon jam with a mushroom or caramelized onion spread for a delectable twist.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare the bacon jam up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before mixing in with the roasted Brussels sprouts. It will still pack a punch of flavor when warmed!

How can I enhance the presentation?

To elevate your dish further, consider garnishing it with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving. A sprinkle of toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, could also add both texture and visual appeal.

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