Are you ready to elevate your dinner table? Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts offer a sweet and tangy twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can turn this classic veggie into a flavorful side delight. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home, this dish is a must-try. Let’s dive into how to bring these tasty sprouts to life!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Combination: The blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a delightful contrast that enhances the natural flavor of Brussels sprouts.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, making this dish a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Customizable Crunch: Adding pecans not only gives a delightful crunch but also boosts the nutritional profile, allowing for personal touches to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Fresh parsley, roughly chopped for garnish
Ingredient Substitutions
– You can use agave syrup or honey as sweeteners.
– For a lower sodium option, choose low-sodium Dijon mustard.
– You can swap olive oil for avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
Using these substitutes lets you tailor the dish to fit your taste and needs. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a great flavor. The Brussels sprouts give a nice bite, while maple syrup adds sweetness. Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick that balances everything. If you love crunch, add pecans for texture. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and makes it look pretty.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Trim and halve 1 pound of Brussels sprouts.
– In a bowl, mix the sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
– Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
– Toss everything until the sprouts are well coated.
Cooking Instructions
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
– Spread the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the sheet.
– Place the sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes.
– Toss the sprouts halfway through for even cooking and caramelization.
Final Touches
– If using pecans, add 1/4 cup during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
– This will toast them slightly and add a nice crunch.
– Once done, take the baking sheet out and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a bright look.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Roasting Process
Even roasting is key for great Brussels sprouts. Spread them out evenly on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate and cook the sprouts evenly. Tossing them halfway through cooking is also important. This helps achieve caramelization on all sides. You want that nice brown color and tender bite.
Flavor Enhancements
Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for more depth. Garlic and onion powder can give it a nice boost too. You can also pair these sprouts with roasted chicken or fish. They work well with grains like quinoa or rice. The sweet and tangy flavors balance nicely with savory dishes.
Presentation Tips
Serve the Brussels sprouts on a colorful platter. Adding a lemon wedge gives a fresh pop of color. It also adds a zesty touch that lifts the dish. For a special look, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top. This makes the dish visually appealing and adds freshness.
Pro Tips
- Even Slicing: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are cut evenly in half for consistent cooking and caramelization.
- Maple Syrup Quality: Use high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor; it makes a significant difference in sweetness and depth.
- Tossing Technique: Toss the Brussels sprouts gently but thoroughly to ensure an even coating of the glaze for maximum flavor.
- Storage Tips: Leftover Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.
Variations
Spicy Twist
Want a kick in your Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts? Add red pepper flakes! Just a pinch works well. You can adjust the heat to fit your taste. Mix it in with the olive oil and glaze. The heat balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. It gives a fun twist to the dish. You will love this spicy layer of flavor.
Sweet and Savory
For a new flavor, combine maple syrup with balsamic vinegar. This mix brings out the sweetness and adds a tangy bite. Start with two tablespoons of maple syrup and one of balsamic vinegar. Stir them together before adding to the Brussels sprouts. This variation makes your dish extra rich and tasty. It’s a great way to impress your guests!
Nut-Free Options
If you need a nut-free dish, you have options! You can use seeds or skip nuts completely. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds add crunch and flavor. Just sprinkle them on before serving. If you prefer no seeds, that’s fine too! The dish will still be delicious and full of flavor. Enjoy it worry-free!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover Maple Dijon Brussels sprouts, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. This helps keep them fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. They can stay good in the freezer for about two months.
Reheating Instructions
For the best way to reheat Brussels sprouts, use an oven or a skillet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil over medium heat. Stir the sprouts gently for about 5-7 minutes until hot.
To keep the texture and flavor, avoid using a microwave. Microwaving can make them soggy. Instead, focus on slow reheating to maintain that crispiness. If they seem dry, drizzle a bit more maple syrup or olive oil before reheating. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQs
How do I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?
To make Brussels sprouts less bitter, choose small, firm sprouts. Look for bright green color without any yellow or brown spots. Trim the ends and cut them in half for even cooking. Soaking them in water for 30 minutes can also help reduce bitterness. Roasting with sweet flavors, like maple syrup, balances the taste. This method brings out natural sweetness while adding depth.
Can I prepare Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts ahead of time. You can wash and cut the Brussels sprouts a day before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For the glaze, mix the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and spices together. Keep it in a separate container. Combine everything just before roasting. This way, the flavors stay fresh and vibrant.
What can I serve with Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts?
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts pair well with many dishes. Consider serving them with roasted chicken or baked salmon for a protein boost. They also go nicely with quinoa or wild rice for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, serve them alongside mashed potatoes or stuffing for a holiday feast. Don’t forget to add a lemon wedge to brighten the flavors!
In this article, we explored the delicious Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts recipe. We discussed key ingredients and easy substitutes. You learned how to prepare, cook, and present them for the best results. I shared tips to enhance flavors and ensure even roasting.
Remember, these Brussels sprouts can fit into any meal. With a few tweaks, you can make them your own. Enjoy this tasty dish and share it with other
