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Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Introduction

Brussels sprouts have come a long way from their overcooked, bitter reputation. Roasting them brings out a delicious caramelized sweetness, and when combined with crispy bacon and a honey glaze, they become an irresistible side dish. This recipe is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or even meal prep for a flavorful, nutritious addition to any meal.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Brussels sprouts, native to Belgium, have been cultivated since the 16th century and became popular across Europe before making their way to the United States. Once overlooked due to improper cooking methods, their resurgence in modern cuisine is thanks to roasting, which enhances their natural sweetness and reduces bitterness. Adding bacon and honey makes them even more appealing, blending savory, smoky, and sweet flavors in a dish that fits into both traditional and contemporary cooking styles.

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)

For the Bacon:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Additions:

• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy finish)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
• Dried cranberries (for a festive touch)

Tips for Success

• Use fresh Brussels sprouts—frozen ones retain moisture and won’t roast as well.
• Spread them out on the baking sheet to ensure even browning.
• Cook bacon separately if you prefer it extra crispy.
• Drizzle honey after roasting to maintain its natural sweetness and avoid burning.

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season & Roast:
   • In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
   • Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Add Bacon & Roast:
   • Sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over the Brussels sprouts.
   • Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
5. Glaze & Serve:
   • Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven and drizzle with the honey glaze.
   • Toss gently and serve warm.

Description

This dish perfectly balances crunchy, smoky bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a sweet yet tangy honey glaze. The roasted edges provide a deep, nutty flavor, while the glaze adds a light, sticky sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion & Recommendation

Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a side dish that even Brussels sprout skeptics will love. Whether served with holiday meals, grilled meats, or as part of a weekly dinner rotation, it’s easy to make and full of rich, complementary flavors.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon, reducing the honey, or roasting the Brussels sprouts without bacon and adding toasted nuts for a healthier crunch. No matter how you prepare them, these sweet and savory Brussels sprouts make healthy eating feel indulgent.

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