Sprouts, bacon and almonds
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Almonds is a delightfully savory dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the salty crispness of bacon and the nutty crunch of almonds. This dish, perfect as a side for any meal, offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that can convert even those usually indifferent to Brussels sprouts.
Cultural or Historical Context Brussels sprouts, a member of the Brassicaceae family, have been cultivated for many centuries in Europe, but their pairing with bacon and almonds is a more modern culinary development. This combination elevates the humble vegetable to a new level, making it a popular choice for festive meals and everyday dining alike. The dish's richness from the bacon and the crunch from the almonds add a complexity that enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients List
- 6 slices of bacon
- 680 grams (1 1/2 pounds) of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons reserved bacon grease
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 60 grams (1/4 cup) slivered almonds
Preparation Instructions
- Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired crispness. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain, reserving 3 tablespoons of the bacon grease.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with the reserved bacon grease, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a rimmed baking pan and roast for 35 to 40 minutes. Shake the pan occasionally for even browning.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and mix it with the roasted Brussels sprouts along with the slivered almonds.
Storage and Reheating Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Almonds can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through, which helps to maintain their texture.
Nutritional Information This dish provides a good balance of nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamin C, and protein, thanks to the Brussels sprouts and almonds. However, it's also important to consider the saturated fat from the bacon. A serving typically contains around 254 calories, 21 grams of fat, 25 milligrams of cholesterol, 357 milligrams of sodium, 5 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, and 8 grams of protein.
FAQ about the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Almonds
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, simply omit the bacon and use a vegetarian substitute for the bacon grease, such as olive oil, to toss the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
- Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
- Absolutely, walnuts or pecans could also work well in this recipe, offering a similar crunchy texture.
For those keen on trying this mouthwatering side dish, the original recipe was shared by Jamie Sherman on Love Bakes Good Cakes. Another variation of this recipe by David Zinczenko and Matt Goulding can be found on Eat This Not That, and more details are available on My Food and Family.
Enjoy crafting this delicious, comforting side dish that promises to be a hit among both adults and children alike, blending rich flavors and textures for an unforgettable culinary experience.