Looking for a tasty side dish that’s easy to make? You’ve landed in the right place! In this blog, I’ll share my delightful recipe for Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts. With the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, these roasted sprouts are a hit with everyone. I’ll guide you through simple steps, helpful tips, and even variations to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. Their nutty flavor shines when roasted. I love trimming and halving them for even cooking. Olive oil helps to crisp them up nicely. Maple syrup adds sweet goodness that balances their natural taste.
Flavor Enhancers
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Dijon mustard brings a sharp, tangy kick. It pairs so well with the sweet maple syrup. Minced garlic adds depth and aroma. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors. Together, these ingredients create a bold taste.
Optional Add-Ons
– 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pecans offer a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. Adding them in the last five minutes of roasting makes them toast perfectly. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top. You can use these add-ons to personalize your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the oven
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat level helps cook the Brussels sprouts evenly and makes them crispy.
Preparing the Brussels sprouts
Next, take 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook faster and soak up the flavors.
Mixing the Ingredients
Combining the main ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Ensuring even coating
Toss everything well. Make sure every sprout gets coated in the tasty mixture. This step is key for great flavor.
Roasting Process
Spreading on the baking sheet
Now, spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly without steaming.
Stirring halfway through
Roast them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through. This ensures they brown and caramelize nicely on all sides. If you want, add chopped pecans for the last 5 minutes to toast them lightly.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dish
To roast Brussels sprouts well, start with fresh, firm sprouts. Trim the ends and slice them in half. This helps them cook evenly. Use a large bowl for mixing. Combine the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss them so every piece gets coated.
To get nice caramelization, roast at 400°F (200°C). Spread them out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Stir halfway through the cooking time. This helps them brown nicely. Look for a tender texture and a rich, golden color.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a different sweetener, try honey or agave syrup. Each gives a unique flavor. You can also use brown sugar for a deeper taste. For mustard, you can switch to whole grain or spicy brown mustard. Each type brings its own twist to the dish.
Enhancing Flavor
To add extra flavor, consider using spices like smoked paprika or chili powder. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also work well. For crunch, try topping your Brussels sprouts with crispy fried onions or sunflower seeds. These additions can make your dish even more delightful.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can change the taste of your Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts easily. For a tangy twist, try adding balsamic vinegar. Just a drizzle will enhance the flavor. Mix it in with the other ingredients before roasting. If you love cheese, you can sprinkle some on top after roasting. Feta or goat cheese works well.
Including Proteins
Want to add some protein? Bacon is a great choice. Cook it until crispy, then chop it up and mix it in with the Brussels sprouts. This gives a smoky flavor that pairs well with the maple and Dijon. If you prefer chicken or tofu, you can roast them alongside the sprouts. Just season them well and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Seasonal Variations
You can also switch things up based on the season. In fall, add roasted sweet potatoes or carrots. In spring, try adding asparagus or snap peas. These veggies bring fresh flavors and colors. For holiday meals, consider adding cranberries or nuts for a festive touch. They make the dish more special and fun to share.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors intact and ready for your next meal.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them stay crispy. Avoid using the microwave. It can make them soggy and less tasty.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts if you want to save some for later. Let them cool completely first. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, run them under cold water.
FAQs
How long do I roast Brussels sprouts?
Roast Brussels sprouts for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This time lets them turn tender and caramelized. Stir them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them. You want a nice golden-brown color for the best flavor.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may not taste as fresh. Frozen sprouts often lose some crunch during cooking. If you use them, roast them longer to help them become tender. You might need to add some time for the moisture to evaporate.
What can I serve with Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. They also go nicely with quinoa or brown rice for a vegetarian meal. You can add a side salad to balance the flavors. Feel free to get creative!
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this dish is vegan! The ingredients include Brussels sprouts, olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. All these items are plant-based. Just make sure your Dijon mustard does not contain any animal products. Enjoy this tasty vegan treat!
You now know how to create Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts. We covered main and optional ingredients. The step-by-step instructions made the process clear and easy. Tips ensured perfect roasting and flavor enhancement. You learned about fun variations, storage methods, and reheating tips. This dish is versatile, tasty, and good for many meals. Enjoy your cooking and impress others with this delicious side dish!
