If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, try my Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts! This easy recipe combines crispy sprouts with rich maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the easy ingredients and quick instructions to make this delicious treat today!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a perfect balance of flavors, making these Brussels sprouts irresistible.
- Nutty Crunch: Adding pecans provides a delightful crunch that complements the tender Brussels sprouts, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
- Festive Touch: The dried cranberries add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, making this dish perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of roasting, this recipe is a hassle-free side dish that can be made in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. Start with one pound of fresh Brussels sprouts. Make sure to trim and halve them for even cooking. Next, you’ll need three tablespoons of olive oil. This helps to create a crispy texture and rich flavor.
Two tablespoons of pure maple syrup add a sweet touch that balances the sprouts' natural bitterness. I like to add one teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a hint of sharpness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
For extra crunch and flavor, consider adding half a cup of roughly chopped pecans. They toast beautifully in the oven. You can also mix in a third of a cup of dried cranberries for a chewy, sweet bite. If you want a pop of color, garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
This mix of ingredients makes for a tasty and colorful side dish. Each bite bursts with flavor. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients and find your perfect balance!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to coat the sprouts evenly.
Roasting
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- In the last 5 minutes, add the chopped pecans to toast them slightly.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Roasting
To get the best flavor from your Brussels sprouts, use a large baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly. If you crowd the sprouts, they will steam instead of roast. Give them space to brown and crisp up nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the taste, try adding garlic powder or onion powder. You can also toss in a pinch of chili flakes for a kick. If you want more sweetness, add a touch of honey. For a tangy taste, squeeze some lemon juice over the sprouts after cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Maple roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with grilled chicken or pork. They also go nicely with a quinoa salad or a hearty grain bowl. For a beautiful presentation, serve them in a colorful bowl. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. Avoid those that are yellowing or have blemishes.
- Adjust Maple Syrup to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your preferred sweetness level. You can also substitute with honey if desired.
- Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts before serving. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Experiment with Nuts: While pecans are delicious, you can also try walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and flavor profile. Toasting them enhances their nuttiness!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can change the nuts in this dish. I love using walnuts or almonds for crunch. If you prefer seeds, try pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They add a nice bite too.
You might want to swap out cranberries. Dried cherries or raisins work well. For a fresh twist, use pomegranate seeds. They add a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Methods
Stovetop sautéing is a great option if you want a quick meal. Heat olive oil in a pan and add the sprouts. Cook until they turn golden brown. This method gives you a different taste and texture.
If you have an air fryer, use it for extra crispiness. Toss the sprouts with oil and seasonings. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway for even cooking.
Seasoning Variations
You can spice things up by adding garlic. Minced garlic gives a rich flavor. For heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top. This adds a nice kick.
Explore flavors from other cuisines. Try adding soy sauce for an Asian twist. Or use cumin or coriander for a Middle Eastern vibe. These simple changes can open up new flavor worlds.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. They will last for about three months in the freezer. Make sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating
For reheating, use an oven or an air fryer. This helps keep the sprouts crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-8 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy. If you must use it, heat in short bursts and check often.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do you know when Brussels sprouts are done roasting? You can tell when Brussels sprouts are done by looking for a nice brown color. They should feel tender when pierced with a fork. The outer leaves may get crispy, which adds flavor and texture. Keep an eye on them, and stir halfway through for even cooking.
Can you make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts a bit ahead. Mix them with the olive oil, maple syrup, and mustard. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, roast them as directed. They will still taste great!
What other dishes pair well with Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts? Maple roasted Brussels sprouts go well with many dishes. They pair nicely with roast chicken, pork, or turkey. You can also serve them with quinoa or rice for a veggie-focused meal. Don't forget to add a rich sauce or dressing for extra flavor!
Health and Nutrition
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts? Brussels sprouts are low in calories but high in nutrients. They are a good source of vitamins C and K. They also provide fiber, which helps digestion. These little veggies are packed with antioxidants, which can protect your body from harm.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets? Yes, this recipe is vegan! It uses plant-based ingredients like Brussels sprouts, olive oil, and maple syrup. There are no animal products involved, making it perfect for those who follow a vegan lifestyle.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I use instead of maple syrup? If you need a substitute for maple syrup, try agave nectar or honey. Both will add sweetness and work well in this recipe. You can even use brown sugar with a bit of water to mimic the syrup's texture.
Alternatives for Dijon mustard? You can replace Dijon mustard with yellow mustard for a milder taste. If you're looking for a kick, try spicy brown mustard. You can also use a mix of vinegar and honey for a different flavor profile.
This blog post showed you how to make delicious maple roasted Brussels sprouts. We covered the main ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for perfect roasting. I shared ways to enhance flavors and suggested variations and storage info. You can enjoy this dish with various meals or try new seasonings. Cooking should be fun and tasty, so use this guide to create your perfect dish. Don't hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
