Maple Bacon Shaved Brussels Sprouts

Recipe by Lisa Sirlin-Hall

If you think Brussels sprouts are boring, prepare to have your mind deliciously changed. These Maple Bacon Shaved Brussels Sprouts are the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight from the main course; the one everyone talks about long after everyone has cleaned their plates. Imagine tender, golden sprouts sautéed in smoky bacon drippings until crisp at the edges, then kissed with a drizzle of maple syrup that adds just the right touch of sweetness. A sprinkle of scallions keeps things fresh, while toasty pine nuts bring a satisfying crunch. It’s a sweet, salty, savory, and slightly spicy (if you’re brave with the cayenne) masterpiece.

This recipe proves that Brussels sprouts deserve a permanent spot at your dining table, especially during holiday time, but also on any night you crave a hearty vegetable side dish.

Recipe: Maple Bacon Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients

• 1 bag shaved Brussels sprouts from Trader Joe’s
• 2T avocado or olive oil
• 3T maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed or chopped fine
• 3 slices bacon
• 2 scallion chopped (both white and green
• 1/4 med onion, sliced thin
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• salt, pepper to taste
• pinch cayenne pepper

Method

1. Set oven to 350 if you want to keep the veg warm while cooking something else.
2. Cut the bacon into small pieces
3. Add avocado oil to a hot cast iron pan. Turn pan to med-low.
4. Fry bacon to taste; remove from pan with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Turn pan up to medium
6. Fry the onions in the remaining bacon fat until golden brown; remove with a slotted spoon to the same plate as the bacon.
7. Add brussels sprouts to pan. DO NOT SEASON YET. Spread evenly and let sit for a few minutes until color starts to form. The more you let them sit, the more caramelized they become.
8. When the sprouts are the color you like, add the garlic; stir for 30 seconds until fragrant; season with salt, pepper, and cayenne.
9. Add maple syrup to pan; stir
10. Add pine nuts; stir
11. Serve to bowl and add chopped scallions.

Notes:

• This recipe two, but can be doubled
• Can be kept warm (transfer to oven-proof dish) in a 350-degree oven until serving time.