Ah, Brussels sprouts. These tiny green gems often spark debate at the dinner table, but toss them with crispy bacon and onions, and suddenly, they’re the star of the show. Imagine the sizzle of bacon in a pan, releasing that unmistakable aroma—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Sometimes, I wonder if these little cabbages are secretly plotting to convert even the staunchest skeptics with their caramelized edges and savory allure.
Steps
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crisp, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Add butter to the skillet along with the bacon drippings and allow it to melt. Add Brussels sprouts and onions to the skillet, and sauté them until they become tender, approximately 10 minutes. If needed, add a few tablespoons of water towards the end to prevent burning.
- Season the sautéed mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Incorporate walnuts, honey, and Dijon mustard into the skillet, tossing everything evenly to coat.
- Continue to cook and toss the ingredients for about 30 seconds to ensure everything is well mixed. Finally, reintroduce the bacon to the skillet, give it a final toss, and serve the dish warm.
Ingredients
- Bacon
- Brussels sprouts
- Yellow onion
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
- Walnuts
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1245 | Fat: 95g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 135mg | Sodium: 1240mg | Potassium: 2335mg | Carbohydrates: 75g | Fiber: 20g | Sugar: 30g | Protein: 35g | Vitamin A: 4125IU | Vitamin C: 394.5mg | Calcium: 255mg | Iron: 8.5mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat them just before serving. Add the walnuts, honey, and Dijon mustard when reheating to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- What can I use as a substitute for bacon?
- If you prefer not to use bacon, pancetta or turkey bacon can be a good substitute. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon entirely or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
- Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if you must use frozen ones, be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture before cooking.
- What if I don’t have Dijon mustard on hand?
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can try using whole grain mustard or a small amount of yellow mustard as a substitute. Balsamic vinegar can also be used for a different flavor profile.
- How can I make this dish nut-free?
- To make this recipe nut-free, simply omit the walnuts. You can add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunchy texture without using nuts.
Tips
- Opt for smaller Brussels sprouts for a quicker cooking time and enhanced flavor.
- Regularly stir the Brussels sprouts while cooking to prevent them from burning.
- Add a little water during cooking if the sprouts start to brown too much.
- For an added twist, finish the dish with a mixture of balsamic vinegar and honey alongside the Dijon mustard for a delightful flavor combination.
Equipment
- 12-inch non-stick skillet
- Tongs (for tossing ingredients)
- Paper towel holder (to hold paper towels for draining bacon)
