Looking for a side dish that will wow your taste buds? My Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are just what you need! These sprouts are sweet, smoky, and crunchy—perfectly balanced for any meal. Whether it’s a special gathering or a cozy dinner, this dish adds a touch of delicious charm. Follow my easy steps and impress your guests with this irresistible treat! Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/3 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
– Fresh chives, finely chopped for garnish (optional)
When making maple glazed Brussels sprouts, fresh ingredients make a big difference. I love using Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. The olive oil adds richness, while the maple syrup brings a sweet note.
The sea salt and black pepper balance the flavors perfectly. Smoked paprika offers a lovely warmth. Finally, toasted hazelnuts add a crunchy texture that makes each bite exciting. You can find the full recipe above, which guides you through the steps of preparation.
Suggested Variations
– Alternative sweeteners: If you prefer, try honey or agave syrup for a different taste.
– Nut substitutions: Swap hazelnuts for walnuts or pecans to explore new flavors.
– Adding spices: For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.
These variations can help you customize the dish to your liking. Experiment with different ingredients to find your favorite combo.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in the olive oil and maple syrup. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are well coated.
Roasting Instructions
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded.
– Place the baking sheet in the oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir the sprouts halfway through cooking. This helps them brown evenly until they are golden and tender.
Final Touches
– After roasting, take the Brussels sprouts out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts over the top. Gently toss to combine. This ensures the nuts mix well with the sprouts.
– For extra flavor, return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes. This warms the hazelnuts and enhances their taste.
– Serve hot. For a fresh touch, garnish with finely chopped chives, if you like. For the full recipe, you can check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Roasting
– Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer for even browning.
– Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Roasting Brussels sprouts at the right temperature is key. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps achieve that crispy, caramelized exterior we all love. When spreading the sprouts, make sure they have space. Overcrowding will lead to steaming, not roasting.
Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. You won’t need to scrub off any stuck bits later. Just toss the paper when you’re done!
Enhancing Flavor
– Adjust seasoning based on your taste.
– Smoked paprika adds a deep, rich flavor.
Feel free to tweak the seasoning. If you like it spicy, add a bit more black pepper. You could also try cayenne for extra heat. Smoked paprika is a game-changer. It gives the Brussels sprouts a warm, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with maple syrup.
The sweetness of the maple syrup balances the savory notes. It creates a lovely harmony in every bite.
Presentation Ideas
– Serve Brussels sprouts on a large platter for a stunning look.
– Drizzle extra maple syrup and sprinkle chives for color.
For a beautiful presentation, pile the Brussels sprouts on a large platter. Drizzle some extra maple syrup on top for a glossy finish. Scatter some fresh chives for a splash of green. They add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
This dish looks as good as it tastes. It makes a great addition to any meal, especially during the holidays. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store leftover maple glazed Brussels sprouts, place them in the refrigerator. Use a clean, airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. Make sure to cool the sprouts to room temperature before sealing the container. I find that using glass containers works best, as they help keep flavors intact.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save Brussels sprouts for later, freezing is a good option. First, blanch the sprouts in boiling water for about three minutes. This helps keep their color and texture. After blanching, cool them quickly in ice water. Drain well, then pack them in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to use them, thaw the sprouts in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for quick thawing.
Shelf Life
Refrigerated leftovers will last about three to four days. If you freeze them, they can last up to six months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If the sprouts smell off or have a slimy texture, it’s best to discard them. Freshness is key to enjoying your meals!
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Pairings
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts are tasty and versatile. They pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. Both meats complement the sweet and nutty flavors. You can also enjoy them with a hearty grain like quinoa or farro for a filling meal.
For a drink, consider a light white wine. A Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay works well. These wines enhance the dish without overpowering it. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon. This combination cleanses the palate and refreshes the meal.
Meal Prep Ideas
Brussels sprouts are great for meal planning. You can roast them in advance and store them in the fridge. They stay delicious for a few days. Add them to salads or grain bowls for easy lunches.
You can serve Brussels sprouts as a side dish or make them the star of your meal. To make them a main dish, add protein like chickpeas or tofu. This way, you create a balanced meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
Portion Sizes
For a side dish, I suggest serving about 1 cup per person. This amount allows everyone to enjoy the flavors without feeling too full. If you host a larger gathering, simply multiply the recipe. For example, if you have eight guests, use two pounds of Brussels sprouts.
Adjust the seasoning accordingly, but keep the cooking time similar. This ensures that everyone gets to enjoy this delicious side dish at your table.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just thaw them first. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps them roast better and get crispy.
How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
This recipe is already vegan if you use pure maple syrup. Just check your maple syrup for animal products. The olive oil and seasonings keep it plant-based.
Troubleshooting
What to do if Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
If the sprouts taste bitter, try adding more maple syrup. This will balance the bitterness with sweetness. Roasting longer can also help caramelize them, reducing bitterness.
How to ensure Brussels sprouts are tender but not mushy?
To keep Brussels sprouts tender and not mushy, roast them at a high heat. Cut them in half for even cooking. Stir them halfway through to help them brown nicely.
Nutritional Information
Caloric content per serving
One serving of maple glazed Brussels sprouts contains about 200 calories. This makes it a healthy side dish option.
Health benefits of Brussels sprouts and hazelnuts
Brussels sprouts are full of vitamins C and K. They also have fiber, which is good for digestion. Hazelnuts add healthy fats and protein, making this dish even better for you.
This post showed how to create a tasty Brussels sprouts dish. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and storage tips. You can also explore flavor variations and meal pairings.
Brussels sprouts can be a delicious side or main dish. Customize it to fit your taste. Enjoy your cooking and impress your guests with this easy recipe!
