Broiled Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: A Flavorful Side
Brussels sprouts are a delightful cruciferous vegetable that often gets a bad rap, but when cooked properly, they can be a true culinary gem. Their versatility means they can enhance a variety of dishes, from holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners. This recipe for broiled Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze not only highlights their unique flavor but also adds a touch of sweetness and tang that elevates them to star status on your dinner plate.
Side dishes play a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of a meal. They can complement the main course, provide additional texture, and introduce new ingredients to the palate. In this recipe, brussels sprouts become a healthy, easy, and quick side that can impress even the pickiest eaters, making it an excellent addition to your cooking repertoire.
In this post, we’ll guide you through a simple yet flavorful recipe that showcases Brussels sprouts in all their glory with a luscious balsamic glaze. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious side dish. You can also find suggested substitutions that may suit your taste or dietary needs.
HTML Table 1: Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | 1 lb | Fresh, trimmed and halved |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Extra virgin recommended |
| Salt | 1 tsp | To taste |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1/4 cup | For glaze |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 tbsp | For sweetness (optional) |
Preparation Steps
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to prepare your broiled Brussels sprouts.
- Preheat the broiler: Set your oven to broil at a high setting. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, caramelized exterior that makes Brussels sprouts so enjoyable.
- Toss Brussels sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Ensure each sprout is well-coated to promote even cooking.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This allows the hot air from the broiler to circulate around each sprout, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Broil and monitor closely: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as broilers can vary in intensity. You want them to be golden brown and slightly charred, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are broiling, make the glaze. This will be added after cooking to give your sprouts a glossy finish and a burst of flavor.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
The balsamic glaze is a simple yet transformative addition to your Brussels sprouts. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup). Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to reduce, stirring occasionally. It should take about 5-10 minutes until the liquid thickens into a syrupy glaze.
- Cool slightly: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the glaze cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
HTML Table 2: Cooking Times
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prepping Brussels sprouts | 10 minutes |
| Broiling Brussels sprouts | 8-10 minutes |
| Making balsamic glaze | 5-10 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Serving the Broiled Brussels Sprouts
Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly broiled and your balsamic glaze is ready, it’s time to bring it all together!
- Drizzle the glaze: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the broiled Brussels sprouts. Use a spatula to toss them gently, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing your dish with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or crushed nuts for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, can also elevate the presentation.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy them while they’re hot. They make a fantastic side for roasted meats, fish, or even as a standalone dish for a vegetarian meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious these are!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Place any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sprouts on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the broiler for a couple of minutes to regain their crispiness.
Conclusion
Broiled Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. Not only are they nutritious, but they also offer a delightful balance of flavors—earthy, sweet, and tangy—all in one bite. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different spices or ingredients, such as garlic or chili flakes, to customize it to your taste. No matter how you choose to make them, these Brussels sprouts will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delectable vegetable!
