Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I love how these Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts transform a humble vegetable into a sweet and savory sensation on my plate. Every time I make this dish, the caramelization from the maple syrup creates a beautiful golden hue and an irresistible aroma that fills my kitchen. This recipe has become a staple and I find it complements both weeknight dinners and holiday feasts perfectly. If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in just a few steps!
When I first tried Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, I was amazed at how the natural sweetness of the maple syrup paired perfectly with the nutty flavor of the sprouts. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds a unique touch to the overall presentation. The key here is to roast the Brussels sprouts until they're slightly crisped, allowing them to caramelize and soak in the maple glaze.
I learned that tossing them halfway through roasting helps achieve a perfect texture. You want that incredible crunch on the outside while keeping them tender inside. It’s simple techniques like this that can elevate your home cooking and impress your guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory with a perfect caramelized finish
- A delightful addition to any meal or holiday gathering
- Easy to prepare, making it a stress-free side dish
Understanding the Sweet and Savory Balance
The combination of maple syrup with Brussels sprouts is a culinary match made in heaven. The natural sweetness of the syrup not only enhances the earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts but also creates a delicious caramelized exterior that you can’t resist. When roasting, the sugar in the syrup melts and coats the sprouts, transforming them into little gems of sweetness with a crispy texture. This transformation is visually appealing, as the sprouts develop a rich golden hue that signals their readiness.
Using pure maple syrup is essential for achieving the best flavor profile. Its nuance and depth surpass artificial syrups, providing a rich, complex sweetness that plays beautifully off the Brussels sprouts' bitterness. If you’re looking for an alternative sweetener, consider agave nectar; however, it won’t yield the same depth of flavor. Be cautious, as the cooking time may need adjustment with substitutes to prevent burning.
Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting is the star of this recipe, and achieving the perfect texture relies heavily on temperature and timing. The key is to ensure that your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the Brussels sprouts inside. This high heat caramelizes the natural sugars quickly, giving a delightful crunch while keeping the inside tender. During roasting, flipping the sprouts halfway through allows for even cooking and browning on all sides.
When it comes to selecting your Brussels sprouts, look for firm, tight, and bright green specimens. Avoid those that appear wilted or have yellowing leaves. The size matters too; try to select sprouts of similar size to ensure even cooking. If some are larger, simply halve or quarter them to match their smaller counterparts. This simple technique can make a significant difference in achieving uniform caramelization across the batch.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Make sure your Brussels sprouts are fresh and properly trimmed for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to perfect Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Roast the Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Glaze the Sprouts
Remove from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the roasted Brussels sprouts. Toss gently to coat.
Finishing Touch
Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then remove and add balsamic vinegar and pecans if using.
Serve warm as an irresistible side dish that will have everyone asking for more!
Pro Tips
- For extra crunch, add the pecans towards the end of roasting time. Also, using high-quality maple syrup will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare these Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts in advance, you can pre-roast them up to 24 hours ahead. Simply follow the recipe to the step before adding the maple syrup, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) and then glaze with maple syrup for a freshly roasted flavor.
For storage, the leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of olive oil if they seem dry. The addition of new fresh maple syrup during reheating can revive the sweetness as well.
Seasonal Variations
As seasons change, so can your Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts! In the fall, consider adding diced apples or pears for a fruity twist. This not only brings a new flavor dimension but also a delicious texture contrast with the crunchy Brussels sprouts. You can toss them into the mix right before adding the maple syrup, allowing them to caramelize slightly while baking.
In winter, adding roasted chestnuts or pomegranate seeds can elevate the dish further with festive flair. Incorporating these ingredients will enhance both flavor and visual appeal, making your Brussels sprouts a standout side for holiday feasts.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor.
→ Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
You could use honey or agave syrup, but it will change the flavor slightly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and glaze in advance, then roast just before serving.
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
I love how these Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts transform a humble vegetable into a sweet and savory sensation on my plate. Every time I make this dish, the caramelization from the maple syrup creates a beautiful golden hue and an irresistible aroma that fills my kitchen. This recipe has become a staple and I find it complements both weeknight dinners and holiday feasts perfectly. If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in just a few steps!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Remove from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the roasted Brussels sprouts. Toss gently to coat.
Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then remove and add balsamic vinegar and pecans if using.
Extra Tips
- For extra crunch, add the pecans towards the end of roasting time. Also, using high-quality maple syrup will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g