Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Category: Appetizers & Snacks
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts (oz) | 24 oz |
| Fish sauce (cup) | 1/4 cup |
| Bacon grease (cup) | 1/4 cup |
| Bacon strips | 6 strips |
| Pepper to taste | To taste |
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Fish (from fish sauce), Pork (from bacon grease and bacon)
- Potential allergens: None noted beyond fish and pork.
Dietary Preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure fish sauce is gluten-free)
- Paleo-Friendly: Yes (substitute bacon grease with coconut oil for a complete paleo meal)
- Low-Carb: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Directions
-
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Begin by de-stemming and quartering the Brussels sprouts. Make sure the sprouts are evenly cut to ensure uniform cooking. -
-
Mix with Bacon Grease and Fish Sauce:
Place the quartered Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Add the bacon grease and fish sauce, then toss everything together until the sprouts are fully coated. The fish sauce will add a unique umami flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts and bacon beautifully. -
Prepare the Bacon:
Slice the bacon into small strips. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it crisps up. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, but keep the rendered bacon grease for later use. -
Combine with Brussels Sprouts:
After the bacon has been cooked, add it to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with pepper to taste, then mix everything thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly. -
Spread and Roast:
Spread the Brussels sprout and bacon mixture onto a greased baking pan. Make sure the sprouts are spread out in a single layer for optimal roasting. Roast in the preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 35 minutes. -
Stir and Check Progress:
Every 5 minutes, give the sprouts a stir to ensure they roast evenly. This will help them crisp up and cook to perfection. -
Finish with Broiling:
Once the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy, broil for a few more minutes to add a delightful char and crispness on top. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. -
Serve:
Once done, remove from the oven, plate the roasted Brussels sprouts, and serve immediately. These savory bites are perfect for a snack or as a side dish to any meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Protein: 7 g
Cooking Tips & Advice:
- Substitute Bacon Grease: If you’re looking for a healthier or vegan option, consider using olive oil or coconut oil instead of bacon grease for roasting the sprouts.
- Add More Flavor: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast after roasting can add a savory, cheesy note to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or beef, or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone snack for a light, satisfying bite.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are the ultimate crispy snack that combines savory, smoky flavors with the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts. The fish sauce adds a depth of flavor, while the bacon provides that irresistible crispy bite. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light snack, this dish is sure to impress anyone who loves a good balance of rich and tangy tastes. Enjoy this easy-to-make yet gourmet dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
