Savory Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Inspired by family traditions, this delightful dish features fresh Brussels sprouts cooked to perfection in rich bacon grease, providing a smoky flavor that perfectly complements their natural earthiness. Topped with crunchy pine nuts and a hint of nutmeg, this festive dish is sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering. Every Christmas, I revisit this cherished recipe created by my sister's sister-in-law, transforming simple ingredients into a heartwarming side that brings our family together. Whether it's for Thanksgiving or a Christmas feast, these Savory Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts are sure to become a beloved staple in your holiday repertoire.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh Brussels sprouts
2 lbs (trimmed and halved)
bacon
1/2 lb (fried crisp, chopped)
pine nuts
1 cup (toasted)
nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (freshly grated (optional for serving))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Rinse the fresh Brussels sprouts under cold water, then trim the stem ends and cut them in half. Remove any damaged outer leaves.
3
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, keeping the drippings in the skillet.
4
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté them for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are tender and nicely browned.
5
While the Brussels sprouts are cooking, spread the pine nuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden, watching carefully to prevent burning.
6
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, stir in the chopped bacon and toasted pine nuts. Sprinkle with nutmeg (if desired) and toss everything together until well combined.
7
Serve hot as a festive side dish and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Savory Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients are fresh Brussels sprouts, bacon, pine nuts, and nutmeg.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How should I prepare the Brussels sprouts?
Rinse them, trim the stem ends, and cut them in half while removing any damaged outer leaves.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for toasting the pine nuts.
How should the bacon be cooked?
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it is crispy.
Do I need to save the bacon grease?
Yes, keep the drippings in the skillet to sauté the Brussels sprouts.
How long do the Brussels sprouts take to sauté?
They should be sautéed for about 10-12 minutes until tender and browned.
How do I toast the pine nuts?
Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden.
When do I add the bacon and nuts to the sprouts?
Stir in the chopped bacon and toasted pine nuts once the Brussels sprouts are finished cooking.
Is nutmeg a mandatory ingredient?
No, the 1/8 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg is optional for serving.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Pork due to the use of bacon.
What is the quantity of Brussels sprouts required?
The recipe requires 2 lbs of fresh Brussels sprouts.
How much bacon is used in this dish?
You will need 1/2 lb of bacon.
How many pine nuts are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of pine nuts.
What flavor does the bacon grease add?
The bacon grease provides a rich, smoky flavor that complements the earthiness of the sprouts.
Is this dish suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is specifically mentioned as a festive side for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Should the dish be served hot or cold?
The dish should be served hot.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 4 main ingredients listed.
How do I ensure the pine nuts don't burn?
Watch them carefully while they are in the oven as they toast quickly.
Can I use pre-chopped bacon?
The recipe suggests frying the bacon crisp first and then chopping it for the best results.
What is the texture of the Brussels sprouts once cooked?
The sprouts should be tender and nicely browned.
Who inspired this recipe?
The recipe was created by the author's sister's sister-in-law.
What does the nutmeg add to the dish?
It adds a hint of spice and aroma to the finished vegetable side.
What is the preparation for the pine nuts?
The pine nuts should be toasted before being added to the sprouts.
Is there a specific heat level for the skillet?
The bacon and sprouts should be cooked over medium heat.
How should the bacon be handled after frying?
Remove it from the skillet and set it aside while you cook the sprouts in the remaining grease.
What is the primary vegetable in this dish?
The primary vegetable is fresh Brussels sprouts.
Is the nutmeg freshly grated?
The recipe recommends using freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor.
Can this recipe be a staple side dish?
Yes, it is described as a beloved staple in a holiday repertoire.