Introduction
Forget everything you think you know about brussel sprouts. This recipe is a revelation, a transformation of those miniature cabbages into something truly crave-worthy. It’s a symphony of flavors – the salty, smoky goodness of bacon, the sweet, oaky warmth of bourbon, and the earthy, slightly bitter notes of perfectly cooked brussel sprouts. We’re not just talking about steamed vegetables here; we’re talking about a culinary experience.
This Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts recipe isn’t just another side dish; it’s a star. It’s the dish that will convert even the most ardent brussel sprout hater. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible, making it a perfect addition to weeknight dinners or a show-stopping offering for holiday gatherings.
The secret lies in the careful balance of ingredients and the technique used to cook them. The bacon provides a salty, smoky base, while the bourbon adds a touch of sweetness and depth. The brussel sprouts are seared to perfection, creating a delightful caramelized exterior and a tender interior. This recipe elevates humble brussel sprouts into a gourmet side dish, a testament to the power of simple ingredients used in a thoughtful way.
The Building Blocks of Flavor: Ingredients & Equipment
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following:
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts: One and a half pounds of fresh brussel sprouts. Look for sprouts that are firm, bright green, and roughly the same size for even cooking. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender.
Bacon: Eight ounces of thick-cut bacon, preferably hickory-smoked. The quality of the bacon matters; choose a bacon that you enjoy eating on its own.
Bourbon: A quarter cup of your favorite bourbon. A mid-range bourbon with notes of caramel and vanilla will work beautifully. Don’t feel the need to use your most expensive bottle, but avoid anything too harsh.
Maple Syrup: Two tablespoons of pure maple syrup. The real stuff makes a difference! If you don’t have maple syrup, brown sugar can be substituted.
Dijon Mustard: One tablespoon of Dijon mustard. The tanginess of the mustard balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and adds a complexity to the glaze.
Olive Oil: Two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, or another cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil.
Salt: Kosher salt, to taste.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
(Optional) Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch or two of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
(Optional) Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: A quarter cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish, adding a nutty crunch.
Equipment
A large skillet or cast iron skillet. Cast iron is ideal for achieving a good sear, but any large skillet will work.
A cutting board for prepping your vegetables and bacon.
A sharp knife for trimming and halving the brussel sprouts.
A mixing bowl for tossing the brussel sprouts with oil and seasoning.
Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements.
Crafting the Dish: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part! Follow these steps carefully to create your own Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts masterpiece:
First, we prep. Wash the brussel sprouts thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the ends and remove any loose or yellowing outer leaves. Cut the brussel sprouts in half lengthwise. If some are particularly large, you might want to quarter them to ensure even cooking. Next, chop the bacon into half-inch pieces.
Next, cook the bacon. Place the chopped bacon in the cold skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered. This usually takes about eight to ten minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Be sure to leave the bacon fat in the pan – this is liquid gold and adds incredible flavor to the brussel sprouts.
Now, it’s time to cook the brussel sprouts. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the halved brussel sprouts to the skillet, cut-side down. Sear the brussel sprouts for about five to seven minutes, without moving them, until they are nicely browned and slightly tender. Season with salt and pepper. The goal is to get a good sear on one side, which adds a delightful caramelized flavor.
Once they’re browned, flip the brussel sprouts and continue cooking for another five to seven minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. They should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to them. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become mushy.
Next comes the magic: the bourbon glaze. Carefully pour the bourbon into the skillet. The alcohol will deglaze the pan, lifting all the browned bits from the bottom and adding a rich, complex flavor. Be cautious when adding the bourbon, as it may flame up. If it does, simply stand back and let the flames subside on their own. Let the bourbon simmer for a minute or two, allowing some of the alcohol to evaporate.
Add the maple syrup and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine. Simmer the glaze for about two to three minutes, or until it thickens slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss the brussel sprouts and bacon in the bourbon glaze, ensuring that everything is well coated. Cook for another minute or two, until heated through and the glaze is evenly distributed.
Finally, garnish and serve. Transfer the Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts and/or a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!
Secrets to Success: Tips and Tricks
To ensure brussel sprout perfection, consider these helpful hints:
Brussel Sprout Selection
Opt for firm, bright green brussel sprouts of similar size. Avoid any that are wilted or have yellowing leaves.
Searing Strategy
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the brussel sprouts. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly. Overcrowding will steam the brussel sprouts instead of searing them.
Timing is Key
Brussel sprouts should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Keep a close eye on them while they’re cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Bourbon Choices
A good mid-range bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes is ideal. Experiment to see which is your favorite. For a non-alcoholic alternative, you can substitute the bourbon with apple cider vinegar or chicken broth for deglazing.
Advance Prep
You can wash and trim the brussel sprouts a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook them when reheating, as they can become mushy.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Additions
Want to get creative? Here are some ideas for customizing your Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts:
Vegetarian Delight
Substitute the bacon with a tablespoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Add toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. You can also use vegetarian bacon.
Spice It Up
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Sweet and Tangy
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the bourbon glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Nutty Goodness
Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios.
Fruity Flair
Add dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of sweetness and chewiness.
The Perfect Partners: Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes.
Main Course Magic
Serve them alongside roasted pork loin, grilled salmon, pan-seared chicken breasts, or a juicy steak. They also complement vegetarian dishes such as lentil loaf or roasted tofu.
Holiday Happiness
Add them to your Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter feast. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will add a touch of elegance to your holiday table.
Beverage Bliss
Pair them with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir. A bourbon-based cocktail, such as an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, would also be a delicious accompaniment. For beer lovers, a brown ale or an amber ale would be a good choice.
A Culinary Triumph: In Conclusion
This Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts recipe is a testament to the transformative power of good ingredients and simple techniques. It’s a dish that will surprise and delight your taste buds, converting even the most skeptical brussel sprout critic. The combination of salty, smoky, sweet, and savory flavors is simply irresistible.
Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly sophisticated flavor profile. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary creation with friends and family. You might just find that it becomes a new family favorite. Prepare to be amazed, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Bacon Bourbon Brussel Sprouts! This recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite!
