Looking to elevate your dinner game? Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts are both savory and simple! This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch that will wow your guests. With just a few good ingredients and my step-by-step guide, you’ll create a tasty side that pairs well with any meal. Let’s dive into the details and make your plate shine!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Seasoning and Toppings
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Optional Ingredients
– Additional balsamic glaze for drizzling
– Other herbs for variation
To make Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts, you need fresh Brussels sprouts. Trim them and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. You will want balsamic vinegar for the tangy flavor. Olive oil adds richness, and maple syrup gives a hint of sweetness.
Seasonings play a key role. Salt and pepper enhance the taste of the dish. Hazelnuts add crunch and flavor. Garlic powder adds a savory touch, while thyme gives a fresh note. You can customize this dish with extra balsamic glaze or different herbs. This way, it suits your taste perfectly.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions that follow.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, garlic powder, and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything until the Brussels sprouts are well-coated.
Cooking Process
– Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet.
– Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts over the sprouts. This adds a nice crunch.
Roasting Tips
– Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes.
– Stir the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking. This helps them roast evenly.
– Look for tender, caramelized sprouts and golden hazelnuts. Enjoy the wonderful nutty aroma!
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
To make Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts shine, start with sweetness. Adding maple syrup can enhance the dish’s flavor. Just one tablespoon can add a nice touch. You can adjust this based on your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more.
Next, balance the acidity with balsamic vinegar. The vinegar adds depth to the dish. Use three tablespoons as a base, but feel free to tweak it. A little extra can bring a nice zing.
Texture Optimization
Crispy Brussels sprouts are a must. To achieve that crunch, ensure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. Avoid crowding them. If they touch, they will steam instead of roast. This can lead to soggy sprouts, and nobody wants that.
For crunchy hazelnuts, chop them finely. This helps them roast evenly. Sprinkle them on top just before baking. They should get nice and toasty in the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Presentation Ideas
Serving Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts well can impress anyone. A simple serving suggestion is to place them in a nice bowl. Drizzle extra balsamic glaze on top for flair. You can also sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for color and taste.
When plating, consider using a white dish. The green of the sprouts pops against the white. This makes the dish look appealing. You want your food to be as beautiful as it is tasty!
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.
Variations
Flavor Variations
If you want to change up the taste, try adding different nuts or seeds. Almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can add a new crunch. Each nut brings its own flavor. You can also try adding spices and herbs. A pinch of chili flakes gives heat. Rosemary or oregano adds earthiness. Experimenting with flavors makes your dish unique.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is easy to modify for different diets. For a vegan option, just use maple syrup. It adds sweetness without dairy. You can also make this dish gluten-free. Balsamic vinegar and olive oil are naturally gluten-free. For nut allergies, simply skip the hazelnuts. You can replace them with sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely. Your Brussels sprouts will still shine.
Serving Suggestions
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken or a hearty grain. Quinoa or brown rice complements the flavor nicely. If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, serve them with a chickpea salad. The Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and balance to your plate. This dish looks great and tastes even better!
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is another option. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This keeps the sprouts from getting freezer burn. To keep Brussels sprouts crispy, allow them to cool before sealing.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are warm. This method keeps them crispy. If you use a microwave, place a damp paper towel over them to avoid sogginess. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
Shelf Life Guidelines
In the fridge, your Brussels sprouts will last about 3-4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Look for discoloration or a slimy texture. If they smell bad or feel mushy, toss them out. Enjoy your delicious dish while it’s fresh! You can find the full recipe above.
FAQs
How do I know when Brussels sprouts are done roasting?
To check if Brussels sprouts are done, look for tenderness. You can pierce them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, they are done. You also want to see caramelization. This means the outer leaves should turn a nice brown color. If they look golden and crispy, they are ready to eat.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but fresh ones taste better. Frozen sprouts may lose some crunch. They also may need more time to cook. If you use frozen, thaw them first. Pat them dry to remove extra moisture. This helps them roast better.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use other kinds. Red wine vinegar and apple cider vinegar work well. They both have a nice tart flavor. Experiment to see what you like best. Each vinegar gives a different taste to your dish.
How to make a balsamic glaze from scratch?
Making balsamic glaze is easy. Start with 1 cup of balsamic vinegar. Pour it into a small pot. Heat it on medium flame and let it simmer. Stir it often until it reduces by half. This takes about 10-15 minutes. The glaze should be thick and syrupy. Let it cool before using. You can drizzle this over your Brussels sprouts for extra flavor. For the complete dish, refer to the Full Recipe.
You learned how to make tasty balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts. I shared key ingredients, like Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. You also got step-by-step cooking tips to make them crispy. Remember, adjust flavors to suit your taste and have fun with variations. Store your leftovers properly and use them within a few days. Now, go ahead and enjoy this delicious dish. Happy cooking!
