Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Prepare to be amazed! If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, this recipe is about to change your mind forever. We’re taking these often-maligned little cabbages and transforming them into a sweet, savory, and utterly addictive side dish that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for more. Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts – this is a game-changer.

Brussels sprouts, members of the Brassica family, have been cultivated since the 16th century, primarily in Belgium (hence the name!). While they might not have always been the most popular vegetable on the table, their nutritional value and versatility have kept them around. And now, with the magic of maple glaze, they’re finally getting the recognition they deserve!

What makes these Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slight bitterness of the roasted sprouts is beautifully complemented by the sweet, caramel-like glaze. Roasting them brings out a nutty flavor and creates crispy edges, while the maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful sheen. They’re easy to prepare, relatively quick to cook, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience Brussels sprouts in a whole new light!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to delicious Brussels sprouts is proper preparation. We want them to be nicely browned and tender, not mushy and bitter. So, follow these steps carefully.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for caramelizing the sprouts and getting that lovely roasted flavor. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the sprouts in.
2. Trim the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the very bottom of the stem of each sprout. This part can be tough and bitter.
3. Halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts. If your sprouts are small to medium-sized, halving them is fine. If they’re larger, quartering them will ensure they cook evenly. We want all the pieces to be roughly the same size.
4. Wash and dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy of browning! Use a salad spinner or pat them dry with paper towels. The drier they are, the better they’ll roast.

Roasting the Brussels Sprouts:

Now for the roasting! This is where the magic happens. We’re going to coax out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts and give them a beautiful, crispy exterior.

1. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. In a large bowl, combine the halved or quartered Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every sprout is coated evenly. I like to use my hands to do this, but you can use a spoon or spatula if you prefer.
2. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the sprouts from sticking. It’s important to arrange them in a single layer so they roast properly. Overcrowding the pan will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and browned. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re easily pierced with a fork and have a nice, caramelized color. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.

Making the Maple Glaze:

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, let’s whip up that delicious maple glaze. This glaze is what takes these Brussels sprouts from good to amazing! It’s sweet, tangy, and adds a beautiful sheen.

1. Whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tanginess and helps to emulsify the glaze. The minced garlic adds a subtle savory note that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Glazing and Finishing:

Almost there! Now we’re going to combine the roasted Brussels sprouts with the maple glaze and give them a final touch of flavor.

1. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven. Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven.
2. Pour the maple glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat. Pour the maple glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently to coat them evenly. Make sure every sprout is glistening with that delicious glaze.
3. Return the Brussels sprouts to the oven for 5-7 minutes. Return the glazed Brussels sprouts to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is slightly thickened and sticky. This final bake helps the glaze to adhere to the sprouts and creates a beautiful, glossy finish. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
4. Remove from the oven and garnish (optional). Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts and fresh parsley. The nuts add a nice crunch and the parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! Serve the Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts immediately while they’re still warm and delicious. They’re the perfect side dish for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. This is the most important tip! Overcrowding the pan will steam the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
• Use good quality maple syrup. The flavor of the maple syrup will really shine through in this dish, so use the best quality you can find.
• Adjust the glaze to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more maple syrup. If you prefer a tangier glaze, add more balsamic vinegar.
• Roast until deeply browned. Don’t be afraid to let the Brussels sprouts get nice and brown. This is where the flavor comes from!
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Variations:

• Add bacon. Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet maple glaze.
• Add cranberries. Dried cranberries add a tart and chewy element to the dish.
• Add red pepper flakes. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
• Use different nuts. Try using almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a bright and zesty flavor.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are so much more than just a side dish; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try, even if you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts. The sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complements the slightly bitter, earthy flavor of the sprouts, and the roasting process brings out a delightful nutty quality that’s simply irresistible.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and transforms a humble vegetable into something truly special. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add more vegetables to your diet in a way that feels like a treat, not a chore.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? These Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are fantastic alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty vegetarian lentil loaf. They also make a wonderful addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, adding a touch of sweetness and sophistication to the holiday table.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many variations you can try! For a little extra crunch, add some chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few minutes of roasting. A sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese after roasting adds a tangy, creamy element that’s absolutely divine. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting will give these sprouts a subtle kick. You could even try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the maple glaze for a more complex, tangy-sweet flavor.

Other variations to consider:

* Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add crispy bacon pieces during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
* Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add a dash of sriracha to the maple glaze.
* Lemon Brussels Sprouts: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sprouts after roasting.
* Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how delicious Brussels sprouts can be. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and find your perfect combination of flavors. Remember, cooking should be fun and creative!

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments on my social media pages – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Your insights and experiences help me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

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