If you’re looking for a dish that brings together the best of sweet, savory, and crispy textures, then the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe takes humble Brussels sprouts and elevates them with deep caramelization and the irresistible umami of bacon jam, creating a perfect balance that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a standout snack, this dish delivers big on flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe plays a crucial role — from enhancing the crispness and flavor to adding that luscious, savory topping. You’ll find that each component is straightforward but essential for creating the perfect harmony on your plate.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich base for caramelizing the Brussels sprouts to golden perfection.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved): The star of the dish, offering a nutty, slightly bitter crunch when cooked right.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors, making every bite more vibrant.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of heat to balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup bacon jam: Brings a smoky, sweet, and savory punch that turns these sprouts into a decadent treat.
How to Make Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by warming the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. This step is key because the right amount of heat sets the stage for perfect caramelization. The oil needs to be hot enough to sizzle once you add the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they get that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2: Add Brussels Sprouts Cut Side Down
Place the halved Brussels sprouts in the skillet cut side down. This positioning is crucial since it maximizes the surface area making direct contact with the pan, allowing them to caramelize beautifully. Resist the urge to stir immediately; let them sit undisturbed for about 6 to 8 minutes. Patience here is your secret weapon.
Step 3: Season and Stir
Once the sprouts have developed a golden-brown crust, sprinkle the salt and ground black pepper evenly over them. Then give everything a gentle stir to coat the sprouts evenly and continue cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes. This step deepens the flavor and softens the sprouts while keeping a tender-crisp texture.
Step 4: Toss with Bacon Jam
Finally, add the bacon jam to the skillet and toss the Brussels sprouts in it so each piece is cloaked in that irresistible smoky-sweet goodness. Let the mixture cook together for 3 to 5 minutes so the jam melds perfectly with the sprouts. Serve this divine creation immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe even more, consider sprinkling some toasted pecans or chopped fresh parsley on top. The nuts add a delightful crunch, and the herbs refresh the palate with a bright contrast to the rich bacon jam.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a rich pasta dish. Its robust flavor makes it a versatile side that brings depth and a touch of indulgence to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the caramelized Brussels sprouts on a rustic wooden board, garnished with microgreens and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can also skewered them with bacon-wrapped sprouts as a creative appetizer, highlighting the bacon jam’s smoky charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This lets the flavors settle even more, though they are best enjoyed fresh for that perfect crispness.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for this dish because the texture of Brussels sprouts tends to become mushy when thawed. However, if necessary, freeze them tightly wrapped for up to a month and be prepared for a softer texture upon reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this dish is in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sprouts soggy. Toss gently to warm the bacon jam evenly without burning it.
FAQs
Can I make the bacon jam from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade bacon jam adds incredible depth and freshness. There are many quick recipes online that combine bacon, onions, coffee, and brown sugar. If not, store-bought versions work wonderfully too.
What can I substitute if I don’t have bacon jam?
If bacon jam isn’t available, try using a combination of caramelized onions and crispy bacon pieces with a bit of maple syrup to mimic that sweet-savory balance.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred because they caramelize better and hold their texture. Frozen sprouts tend to release more water, making caramelization challenging and resulting in a softer dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon jam separately and combine them just before serving. This keeps the sprouts crisp and the flavors fresh.
What wines pair well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled Pinot Noir complements the smoky and sweet elements perfectly without overpowering the Brussels sprouts.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to pull together, showcasing how simple ingredients can transform into something truly special. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of comfort and flavor that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A savory and sweet side dish featuring caramelized Brussels sprouts enhanced with flavorful bacon jam. This quick and easy recipe uses stovetop cooking to deliver perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts with a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup bacon jam
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add Brussels sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the skillet to begin caramelizing.
- Caramelize sprouts: Cook the Brussels sprouts without stirring for 6-8 minutes to allow a golden brown crust to form.
- Season and cook more: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the Brussels sprouts, stir them gently, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes to soften and caramelize further.
- Add bacon jam: Stir in the bacon jam and toss the Brussels sprouts to coat evenly. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure Brussels sprouts are cut side down for best caramelization.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Bacon jam can be homemade or store-bought.
- Serve as a flavorful side dish with meats or on its own as a vegetarian-friendly option if bacon jam is substituted.
