Description
This Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts recipe combines crispy caramelized Brussels sprouts with a rich, savory bacon jam made from smoky bacon, onions, garlic, and a hint of sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect as a flavorful and elevated side dish, it brings depth and complexity to any meal while being gluten-free and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Bacon Jam
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the bacon jam: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it begins to crisp and releases its fat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 8 minutes until softened and caramelized.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer jam mixture: Mix in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Brussels sprouts: While the jam simmers, toss the halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
- Cook Brussels sprouts: Heat a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down and cook without stirring for 5-6 minutes until golden and caramelized. Stir and cook another 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Combine and serve: Remove the Brussels sprouts from heat and gently fold in the prepared bacon jam, coating them evenly. Serve immediately while warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a smoky kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the bacon jam while it simmers.
- Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar to vary the sweetness.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a deeper flavor profile.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and add smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke with caramelized onions.
