Looking for a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal? Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts are here to impress! These savory, caramelized sprouts bring a sweet tang to your table. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the easy recipe, share key tips for success, and offer tasty variations. Get ready to make a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Full Recipe Overview
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a tasty side dish. They mix sweet and tangy flavors. This dish is great for any meal. It takes just 35 minutes to make. You can impress your guests or family with this easy recipe.
List of Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need:
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a rich flavor. The balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. Honey or maple syrup gives it sweetness.
Suggested Kitchen Tools
For this recipe, you will need:
– A baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– A mixing bowl
– A whisk
– A sharp knife
– A cutting board
These tools help you prepare and cook the dish easily. The baking sheet ensures even roasting. The mixing bowl lets you combine all the flavors well. You’ll enjoy making this dish as much as eating it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the Brussels sprouts cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until everything combines.
Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl. Pour the balsamic mixture over them. Toss the sprouts gently until they are fully coated.
Roasting Process
Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet. Place them cut sides down. This helps with caramelization as they roast.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to toss them once halfway through cooking. You want the sprouts to be tender and caramelized.
Once they are done, take them out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the warm sprouts. This adds a rich flavor.
Serving Instructions
Let the Brussels sprouts cool slightly. Transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.
For an extra flavor boost, drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze from the baking sheet over the top. This dish is ready to impress! Enjoy your Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts as a tasty side. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfect Caramelization
To get that lovely caramelized look, you must start with dry Brussels sprouts. After trimming and halving them, pat them with a kitchen towel. This step helps the outside crisp up. When you place them cut side down on the baking sheet, this part gets nice and brown. Roasting at 400°F makes a big difference. Toss them halfway through cooking. This ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
Alternatives to Honey or Maple Syrup
If you want to swap honey or maple syrup, you have options. You can use agave nectar or brown sugar. Both add sweetness without changing the taste too much. If you prefer less sweetness, try balsamic glaze. This will enhance the flavor while keeping it rich and tangy.
Enhancements with Seasoning
Seasoning can take your Brussels sprouts to the next level. Adding garlic gives a nice savory touch. You can also sprinkle in herbs like thyme or rosemary. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish. For a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes. Each of these choices helps create depth in flavor and keeps things interesting.
Variations
Adding Different Vegetables
You can mix in other veggies with Brussels sprouts. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers work great. They add color and flavor. Just cut them to match the size of the sprouts. Toss them all in the balsamic mix. Roast everything together. This way, you get a colorful and tasty dish.
Modifying for Vegan Preferences
To make this dish vegan, swap honey for maple syrup. This keeps the sweetness but meets vegan needs. Also, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese. The balsamic glaze still shines, giving you all the flavor without any animal products.
Flavor Boosters like Nuts or Cheese
Nuts add crunch and richness. Try walnuts or pecans for a nice texture. Just sprinkle them on before roasting. If you want cheese, go for goat cheese or feta. They give a creamy contrast to the sprouts. Both options elevate the dish’s taste and make it even more enjoyable.
For the full recipe, check the section above.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigeration
To keep your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure the sprouts are cool before sealing. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Reheating is simple and quick. You can use the oven or a skillet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using a skillet, add a splash of olive oil and heat on medium until warm. This keeps them crispy and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
If you have extra sprouts, freezing is a great option. First, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Then, cool them in ice water. Once cool, drain and dry them well. Place the Brussels sprouts in a freezer bag or container. They will last for about 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your delicious meal any time! For the full recipe, check my earlier section.
FAQs
Can I make Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts in advance. Cook them fully, then cool them down. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven or a pan. This makes it easier to enjoy a tasty side dish during busy days.
What can I serve with Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts pair well with many dishes. They go great with roasted chicken, steak, or fish. You can also serve them with quinoa or rice for a healthy meal. Try them alongside a fresh salad for added crunch. This side dish adds a rich flavor that enhances any meal.
How do I store leftovers effectively?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely first. Place the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them if you want to save them longer. Just remember that freezing may change their texture a bit. When you want to eat them, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop. Enjoy the flavors again!
This blog post covered the full recipe for Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts. We explored key ingredients, kitchen tools, and step-by-step prep and cooking instructions. We shared tips for perfect caramelization and variations for different diets. Plus, we discussed storage and leftovers.
Now you have everything you need to make this dish shine in your kitchen. Try it out, and enjoy the unique flavors!
