Description
This recipe for Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Jam offers a savory and sweet twist on a classic vegetable side dish. Brussels sprouts are cooked to a perfect caramelized crisp in olive oil, then tossed with rich and flavorful bacon jam, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes ideal for a comforting yet elegant meal accompaniment.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup bacon jam
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
- Add Brussels sprouts: Place the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the hot skillet, ensuring they are evenly spread and making good contact with the pan surface.
- Caramelize sprouts: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes so they develop a rich caramelized crust on the cut side.
- Season and stir: Sprinkle salt and ground black pepper over the Brussels sprouts, then stir them carefully and continue cooking on the stove for another 6-8 minutes until tender and golden brown.
- Toss with bacon jam: Add the bacon jam to the skillet and toss the Brussels sprouts gently to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes for the flavors to meld and serve immediately.
Notes
- Bacon jam adds a savory-sweet flavor that complements the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts.
- Using a cast-iron skillet enhances caramelization due to its excellent heat retention.
- To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, substitute bacon jam with a plant-based alternative or a maple syrup glaze.
- Trim and halve Brussels sprouts uniformly for even cooking.
- Cooking time may vary depending on stove heat and pan type; watch for caramelization without burning.
