Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the rich and smoky flavors of bacon. This easy-to-make recipe takes Brussels sprouts to a whole new level by roasting them to perfection and adding crispy bacon for an irresistible combination of textures and tastes.

INGREDIENTS:

• 24 oz Brussels sprouts
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 1/4 cup bacon grease (can substitute any oil)
• 6 strips bacon (optional)
• Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius).
2. De-stem the Brussels sprouts and cut them into quarters.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with the bacon grease (or oil) and fish sauce. Toss until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
4. If using bacon, cut the strips into small strips and cook them in a skillet until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Add the cooked bacon (if using) and pepper to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. Mix well to distribute the bacon and seasonings.
6. Grease a baking pan or sheet with oil or cooking spray. Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture onto the pan in a single layer.
7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for approximately 40 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown. Stir the Brussels sprouts every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
8. Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, you can optionally broil them for a few more minutes to achieve extra crispiness. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
9. Remove the pan from the oven and let the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon cool for a few minutes before serving.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• If you don’t have bacon grease available, you can substitute it with any cooking oil of your choice. However, using bacon grease adds extra flavor to the dish.
• Fish sauce adds a savory umami flavor to the Brussels sprouts. If you prefer not to use fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari.
• Adjust the amount of pepper according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less pepper to suit your liking.

TIPS:

• Choose fresh and firm Brussels sprouts for the best results. Look for ones that are bright green and free from blemishes.
• Make sure to cut the Brussels sprouts into uniform quarters to ensure even cooking.
• For extra crispy bacon, you can cook it until it’s almost fully crispy before adding it to the Brussels sprouts. The residual heat from the oven will finish cooking the bacon.
• If you want to add a touch of sweetness to the dish, you can drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
• Serve the Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon as a delicious side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal. They are also a fantastic addition to holiday dinners and gatherings.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a mouthwatering side dish that brings out the best flavors in Brussels sprouts. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts while adding a delightful caramelized exterior. The addition of crispy bacon elevates the dish, providing a smoky and savory element that complements the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts.

Preparing this recipe is straightforward. After de-stemming and quartering the Brussels sprouts, they are tossed with bacon grease (or oil) and fish sauce. The fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor that takes the dish to another level. If desired, crispy bacon can be added to enhance the smoky profile. The Brussels sprouts mixture is then spread onto a greased pan and roasted in a preheated oven.

Roasting the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius) allows them to develop a lovely golden color and a delicious crispness. Stirring the sprouts every 10 minutes ensures even cooking and helps to achieve an evenly browned exterior. For those who enjoy extra crunch, broiling the sprouts for a few additional minutes creates an irresistible texture.

The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon is a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any meal. The dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. It brings a delightful burst of flavor and vibrant colors to the table, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while bacon provides a rich source of protein and adds a burst of flavor. This dish allows you to enjoy the goodness of vegetables and indulge in the smoky goodness of bacon simultaneously.

In conclusion, Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that combines the unique flavors of Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts, while the addition of bacon provides a savory and smoky contrast. Whether served as a side dish or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among both Brussels sprouts enthusiasts and bacon lovers alike.