If you have been searching for a side dish that bursts with flavor and combines savory, sweet, and smoky all in one bite, look no further. This Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe offers a perfect twist on a classic vegetable, turning ordinary brussels sprouts into a decadent treat. The magic lies in the deep caramelization of the sprouts paired beautifully with the rich, luscious bacon jam, creating a dish that’s crispy, tender, and impossible to resist. Whether you are serving this at a family dinner or a festive gathering, these brussels sprouts will surely steal the spotlight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients that pack a punch is the key to this recipe’s success. Each element plays a vital role, contributing to the dish’s amazing balance of textures and flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for achieving that perfect caramelized crust on the Brussels sprouts.
- 1 pound brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved): Fresh sprouts are the star here; halving them helps caramelize evenly and cook quickly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and brings out the savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complements the rich bacon jam.
- ½ cup bacon jam: The secret weapon that infuses the dish with smoky, sweet, and meaty goodness—don’t skip this!
How to Make Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe
Step 1: Heat Your Skillet
Begin by warming a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Cast-iron works wonders here because it holds heat consistently, allowing your Brussels sprouts to caramelize beautifully without burning.
Step 2: Add Brussels Sprouts Cut-Side Down
Once the oil shimmers, place the trimmed, halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in one even layer. This step is crucial for creating those golden, crunchy edges that make this dish so irresistible. Resist the urge to stir!
Step 3: Caramelize Without Disturbing
Let the sprouts cook undisturbed for 6 to 8 minutes. Patience pays off here, as this undisturbed time lets the natural sugars in the sprouts develop a deep, rich caramelized flavor and crispiness that’s just heavenly.
Step 4: Season and Stir
Sprinkle on the salt and ground black pepper, then stir the sprouts to turn and cook them for another 6 to 8 minutes. This cooking period ensures the sprouts are tender inside while still retaining a pleasant crunch.
Step 5: Add the Star Ingredient — Bacon Jam
Finally, add the bacon jam into the skillet and toss the brussels sprouts gently but thoroughly so every piece gets coated in that luscious, smoky-sweet jam. Cook together for 3 to 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly before serving immediately.
How to Serve Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra splash of color and freshness, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the dish before serving. A grating of sharp Parmesan cheese can also add an elegant, salty contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with roasted meats like pork or chicken, or even alongside a creamy risotto or buttered mashed potatoes. The richness of the bacon jam will complement hearty main courses perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve your caramelized Brussels sprouts with bacon jam on a rustic wooden board alongside crusty bread or crackers for scooping up every last delicious bite. You might also try layering them over a bed of quinoa or wild rice for a hearty grain bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing them to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing cooked Brussels sprouts isn’t ideal for texture, you can freeze the bacon jam separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw and reheat the jam to combine with freshly cooked sprouts for the best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Brussels sprouts in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if they seem dry. For the bacon jam, reheat slowly in a small pan or microwave until just warmed through, then toss together.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh sprouts work best for caramelizing because they hold their shape and crispness. Frozen sprouts tend to be softer and may become mushy when cooked this way, so it’s recommended to use fresh ones for this recipe.
What is bacon jam and where can I find it?
Bacon jam is a savory spread made from slow-cooked bacon, onions, sugar, and vinegar that melts into a sweet and smoky condiment. You can find it in specialty grocery stores or make your own at home using simple ingredients.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To keep the caramelized Brussels sprouts vegetarian, you can substitute the bacon jam with a smoky, tangy chutney or a combination of caramelized onions and smoked paprika to mimic some of the bacon’s flavor profile.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are perfectly caramelized?
Look for a deep golden-brown color on the cut sides with slightly crisp edges. They should be tender inside but still have a slight bite. The aroma will also be rich and nutty at this point.
Is bacon jam very sweet?
Bacon jam balances sweetness with smoky and savory notes, so it’s not overly sweet. It adds depth and a hint of sweetness that enhances the caramelized Brussels sprouts without overpowering them.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam Recipe enough. It’s one of those dishes that turns even Brussels sprouts skeptics into fans with its perfect combination of crispiness, sweetness, and smoky richness. Give it a try and watch your family reach for seconds — you won’t be disappointed!
Print
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
This recipe for Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam offers a deliciously savory side dish featuring tender Brussels sprouts caramelized to a golden brown and tossed in rich, flavorful bacon jam. Cooked in a cast-iron skillet, this quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness, ideal for complementing any meal.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Bacon Jam
- ½ cup bacon jam
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking, preparing the pan for caramelizing the Brussels sprouts.
- Arrange Brussels sprouts: Place the Brussels sprouts cut side down in the hot skillet, ensuring they are evenly spread out in a single layer for optimal caramelization.
- Caramelize without stirring: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cook undisturbed for 6 to 8 minutes, enabling the cut sides to develop a golden-brown, caramelized crust.
- Season and stir: Sprinkle the salt and ground black pepper over the Brussels sprouts, then stir them gently to redistribute and continue cooking them for an additional 6 to 8 minutes until they are tender and evenly browned.
- Add bacon jam and toss: Pour the bacon jam into the skillet, toss the Brussels sprouts thoroughly to coat them in the jam, and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes on the stove to meld the flavors and heat through. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best caramelization results.
- Do not stir the Brussels sprouts during the initial caramelizing stage to allow for a nice crust to form.
- Bacon jam can be prepared ahead of time and stored refrigerated for convenience.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the Brussels sprouts’ crispiness and bacon jam’s richness.
