| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 215 | 15g | 4g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 4g | 9g | 1g |
Named after the city they were popularized in, Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that packs a serious nutritional punch. One of my favorite recipes to showcase this underestimated veggie is the Brussels Sprouts with Bacon dish. The crispy texture of the bacon provides a delightful contrast to the soft, well-cooked Brussels sprouts, and the drizzles of lemon juice and honey add a perfect tangy-sweet finish.
The Inspiration Behind the Dish
Rooted in my Montana upbringing, where meals combined the practicality of a rancher’s table with a nod towards Native American culinary traditions, Brussels Sprouts with Bacon holds a special place in my kitchen. Though I love exploring new flavors, sometimes it’s the simplest dishes that resonate the most. Brussels sprouts, with their own uniquely bold flavor, didn’t often adorn our Montana table growing up – but they have become a stalwart of my present-day culinary arsenal.
The Health Perks
This little green gem of a vegetable is not only delicious but also filled with an array of health benefits. Brussels sprouts are known for their high fiber content and antioxidant properties. When combined with a protein-packed ingredient like bacon, you’re looking at a flavorful dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also supports overall wellbeing.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon can somewhat be compared to the classic Kale with Pancetta. Both recipes involve a green leafy vegetable with a type of bacon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Given its savory profile, this Brussels sprouts dish can serve as both a standalone meal or a side dish to complement a main, perhaps a Bison burger or a succulent venison steak from a traditional Montana ranch.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility and the ease with which it can be prepared. No matter the occasion, Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, encouraging everyone to enjoy the often overlooked wonders of this powerful vegetable.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of Brussels sprouts
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey
Method
Step One
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. While the oven is preheating, trim the base of each Brussels sprout and cut them in half.
Step Two
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about two tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pan.
Step Three
Add the olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Once heated, add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook them for about 10 minutes, or until they begin to brown.
Step Four
After the sprouts have started to brown, transfer them to a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden brown.
Step Five
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, chop the cooked bacon. After the sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
Step Six
Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon juice and honey. Toss them gently to evenly distribute the flavors. Top the sprouts with the chopped bacon before serving. Your Brussels sprouts with bacon are now ready to enjoy!
