Want a simple yet delicious side dish? Maple glazed Brussels sprouts are the answer! They combine the perfect blend of sweetness and savory flavor. This easy recipe boosts the natural taste of Brussels sprouts, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting dinner or just cooking for yourself, you’ll impress everyone with this tasty dish. Let’s dive into the ingredients and discover how to create this mouthwatering recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that elevate Brussels sprouts to a new level.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
- Nutty Crunch: Adding pecans not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender Brussels sprouts.
- Versatile Side Dish: These maple glazed Brussels sprouts can be served warm as a side dish or cold as a salad topping, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
To make maple glazed Brussels sprouts, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The Brussels sprouts provide a rich, earthy base. The olive oil helps in roasting, giving them a nice crisp. Maple syrup adds sweetness that balances the sprouts' bitterness. Dijon mustard adds depth, while garlic powder enhances the flavor. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning. Chopped pecans add crunch, and balsamic vinegar finishes the dish with a tangy touch.
Using high-quality maple syrup makes a big difference in taste. Always choose pure maple syrup over imitation for the best flavor. These ingredients come together to create a dish that's savory and sweet. It’s simple yet elegant enough for any meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat helps the Brussels sprouts get crispy and caramelized.
Prepare Brussels Sprouts
Next, grab a large bowl. Add the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and half a teaspoon of garlic powder. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to coat the sprouts evenly.
Spread on Baking Sheet
Now, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Place the Brussels sprouts cut side down on the sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly.
Roast Brussels Sprouts
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Roast the sprouts for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking. You want them to be tender and caramelized.
Add Pecans
Five minutes before the sprouts finish, sprinkle chopped pecans over them. This adds a nice crunch and flavor.
Finish with Balsamic
When the Brussels sprouts are done, take them out of the oven. Drizzle them with balsamic vinegar. This gives them a tasty kick.
Serve
Serve the maple glazed Brussels sprouts warm. They make a great side dish or a yummy salad topper.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Roast
To make your Brussels sprouts crispy, roast them at 400°F (200°C). This hot oven helps caramelize the outsides. Spread them out on the baking sheet. Make sure they don't touch. This allows hot air to flow around them. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. You want them tender inside and crispy outside.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Add depth to your dish with simple changes. Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. It gives a stronger flavor. You can swap maple syrup with honey for a different taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you like tang, mix in a splash of lemon juice. These tweaks can make your dish unique.
Presentation Tips
Make your dish look appealing. Transfer the sprouts to a nice serving platter. Garnish with extra pecans for crunch. Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top for shine. A little balsamic vinegar adds color and flavor. A well-presented dish makes every meal special.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will have a better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. Look for bright green, firm sprouts when shopping.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup used. Start with less and add more if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
- Experiment with Nuts: While pecans add a lovely crunch, feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles and textures.
- Perfect Roasting: For the best caramelization, ensure the Brussels sprouts are spaced out on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Variations
Nut-free Option
If you want to make this dish nut-free, simply leave out the pecans. The Brussels sprouts still taste great without nuts. You can add seeds instead, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add crunch and flavor without using nuts.
Vegan Alternatives
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses maple syrup and olive oil. If you want to boost flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari. This will give the dish extra depth and a savory note.
Different Sweeteners
You can use other sweeteners if you don’t have maple syrup. Honey works well but is not vegan. Agave syrup gives a similar sweetness and is vegan too. You can also try brown sugar, but use less. Adjust to taste for the perfect balance!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover maple glazed Brussels sprouts in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your Brussels sprouts in the oven for the best texture. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warm. You can also microwave them for 1 to 2 minutes, but they won't be as crispy.
Freezing Suggestions
To freeze, let the sprouts cool completely. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I make Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts crispy?
To get crispy Brussels sprouts, you need good heat and space. Start with a hot oven, around 400°F (200°C). Spread the halved sprouts cut side down. Leave space on the baking sheet for air to flow. Don't crowd the pan. Flip halfway through roasting to brown both sides. For extra crunch, you can broil them for the last minute.
Can I prep Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep Brussels sprouts ahead. Trim and halve them a few hours before cooking. Store them in cold water in the fridge. They stay fresh this way. You can also mix the maple glaze ahead of time. Just keep it in a sealed container until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. They work great as a side for roasted chicken or pork. You can add them to salads for a tasty crunch. They also complement grains like quinoa or rice. Feel free to experiment with your main dishes!
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
To adjust sweetness, change the amount of maple syrup. Add less syrup for a less sweet taste. You can also mix in a splash of lemon juice for a tangy balance. If you want more sweetness, try adding a bit of honey. Taste as you go to find your perfect blend!
You learned how to make tasty maple glazed Brussels sprouts. We covered key ingredients, easy steps, and useful tips. You discovered variations to fit your needs, like nut-free or vegan choices. Plus, I provided storage advice for leftovers.
Enjoying this dish not only brings flavor but also excitement to your meals. Try these sprouts at your next gathering. They are sure to impress everyone at the table.
