ADVERTISEMENT
### Versatility in Pairings
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts can be paired with a variety of dishes:([loveandlemons.com][4])
* **Proteins**: They complement roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef.
* **Grains**: Serve alongside quinoa, rice, or couscous for a wholesome meal.
* **Salads**: Incorporate them into salads for added texture and flavor.
* **Pasta**: Toss with pasta for a hearty vegetarian dish.
### Customization Options
This dish is highly adaptable. Add-ins like crispy bacon, caramelized onions, toasted nuts, or dried fruits can elevate the flavor profile. For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and omit any animal products.
## Recipe: Classic Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
### Ingredients
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese([loveandlemons.com][4], [allrecipes.com][5])
### Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven**: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. **Prepare Brussels Sprouts**: Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut the sprouts in half.
3. **Season**: Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. **Roast**: Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. **Prepare Glaze**: While the sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. **Glaze and Serve**: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
## Variations to Explore
### 1. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Adding bacon introduces a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the balsamic glaze. Cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and sprinkle over the glazed sprouts before serving.
### 2. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate and Walnuts
For a festive touch, incorporate pomegranate seeds and toasted walnuts. The pomegranate adds a burst of juiciness, while the walnuts provide crunch and depth.
### 3. Spicy Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries
Introduce heat with red pepper flakes, and balance it with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the richness of pecans. This variation offers a complex flavor profile. ([reddit.com][6])
### 4. Vegan Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Maple Syrup
Substitute honey with maple syrup and omit cheese to create a vegan-friendly version. The maple syrup enhances the glaze’s sweetness, making it a delightful plant-based dish.
## Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
* **Selection**: Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid those with yellow or wilted leaves.
* **Uniformity**: Try to select sprouts of similar size for even cooking.
* **Cutting**: Halve or quarter large sprouts to ensure they cook evenly.
* **Roasting**: Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet to ensure proper caramelization.
[1]: https://www.averiecooks.com/balsamic-glazed-brussels-sprouts-with-pomegranate-seeds/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Roasted Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts – Averie Cooks”
[2]: https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/32283338/making-brussels-sprouts-all-wrong-best-christmas-recipe/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “People are only just realising they’ve been making Brussels Sprouts all wrong – & there’s a cupboard staple you MUST add”
[3]: https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/balsamic-roasted-brussels-sprouts?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Balsamic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts”
[4]: https://www.loveandlemons.com/balsamic-brussels-sprouts/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe – Love and Lemons”
[5]: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/240204/balsamic-glazed-brussels-sprouts/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe”
[6]: https://www.reddit.com/r/vegetarianfoodporn/comments/jtqqb3?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Roasted Balsamic, Chilli & Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans & Dried Cranberries”
