Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

Brussels sprouts are often overlooked as a side dish, but when combined with crispy bacon and a sweet maple glaze, they become a show-stopping appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. This recipe takes the humble Brussels sprout to new heights, creating a dish that is both savory and sweet, with a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delicious snack, these maple glazed bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 pound Brussels sprouts
8 slices of bacon
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim off any tough outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise, creating bite-sized pieces that will be easier to wrap in bacon.

Step 2: Wrap the Brussels Sprouts in Bacon

Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout half, securing it with a toothpick. Place the bacon-wrapped sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between each one.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This glaze will add a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance out the richness of the bacon.

Step 4: Glaze the Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the maple glaze over each bacon-wrapped Brussels sprout, making sure to coat them evenly. Reserve some of the glaze for later.

Step 5: Bake and Glaze Again

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Halfway through the cooking time, remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the sprouts for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a serving platter and remove the toothpicks before serving. These delectable bites can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Tips and Variations

If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the maple glaze.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with strips of marinated tofu or tempeh.
Experiment with different glazes by adding ingredients like honey, soy sauce, or Dijon mustard to create unique flavor profiles.
For a festive twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts before baking.

With their irresistible combination of smoky bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and sweet maple glaze, these bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a Brussels sprout enthusiast or a skeptic, this recipe is sure to convert you into a fan. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone wanting more.