Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts: A Flavorful, Healthy Side Dish for Any Occasion
Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts can really stir up strong feelings, right? You either love them or canβt stand them. But when cooked the right way, these little green gems can be transformed into a deliciously caramelized, sweet, and savory side dish that might just convert even the staunchest skeptics.
My Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts recipe showcases how to unlock the full flavor potential of this versatile veggie. By tossing the Brussels sprouts in a simple mixture of maple syrup and spices before roasting, youβll end up with crispy sprouts on the outside and tender ones on the inside, all bursting with a wonderful balance of sweetness and a hint of warmth from the chili flakes.
This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and works beautifully alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or any hearty roast dinner. Plus, with its vegan, paleo, and gluten-free credentials, itβs a recipe that everyone can enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What sets my Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts apart is the unique flavor profile. The maple syrup lends a delightful sweetness that balances beautifully with the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while the chili flakes add a subtle yet warming spice.
I can personally attest to the transformative power of this recipe. I was once indifferent to Brussels sprouts, but after trying these Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts tossed in the sweet and spicy maple glaze, I was completely won over. The texture is spot-on: crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, almost buttery.
Beyond the taste, this recipe is convenient and accommodates a wide range of dietary needs. Itβs super simple to whip up, with minimal hands-on time required, making it perfect for busy holidays or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
To make my Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts, youβll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh Ingredients for Best Flavor
When it comes to Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts, freshness is key! Look for sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that are yellowing, wilting, or have damaged outer leaves, as these can impart a bitter taste.
And donβt skimp on the maple syrupβthe quality matters! A pure, high-quality maple syrup will significantly enhance the final flavor of the dish, unlike cheaper pancake syrups that lack the richness youβre looking for.
Want to dive deeper into the health benefits of maple syrup? Check out this resource!
Equipment Needed for Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Hereβs what youβll need in your kitchen for Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts:
- Large mixing bowl
- Rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan
- Tongs or spatula for tossing the sprouts
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, maple syrup, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper until everything is nicely coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Make sure they have a bit of breathing room and arenβt overcrowded.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, tossing them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Serve the Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts
- Roast at a high temperature (400Β°F/200Β°C) to get that crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender.
- Donβt overcrowd the baking sheetβthis helps the Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts roast evenly and develop that perfect caramelization.
- Toss halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you want an extra kick.
- For a fun twist, consider adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or even some crumbled bacon if you like!
Nutritional Information of Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse! Just one cup of cooked Brussels sprouts contains:
- Calories: 56
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin C: 125% of the daily value
- Vitamin K: 195% of the daily value
- Folate: 16% of the daily value
Not only are they packed with vitamins and minerals, but they also provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a healthy and filling side dish.
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts
These Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic match for various main dishesβfrom roast turkey or chicken to ham or pork tenderloin. They also shine on a holiday spread, complementing traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas fare.
For even more festive inspiration, check out my delicious Cranberry Sauce Meatballs and indulge in a creamy Cranberry Cheesecake!
If you have leftovers, reheating the sprouts makes for a delicious breakfast or brunch alongside scrambled eggs, avocado toast, or a hearty breakfast hash. Talk about a nutritious morning!
Conclusion
Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts are the easy, versatile, and downright delicious side dish you need in your life. With their crispy, caramelized exterior and sweet, tender interior, theyβll have even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts eaters coming back for more.
Whether youβre serving them at your Thanksgiving feast, your Christmas dinner, or a simple Sunday roast, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser thatβs healthy, vegan, and paleo-friendly. So why wait? Give these Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts a try, and get ready to fall in love with this humble vegetable all over again.
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For more information on the health benefits of Brussels sprouts, check out this article on Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts!
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Recipe Summury
Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan
- Tongs or spatula for tossing the sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, maple syrup, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper until everything is nicely coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Make sure they have a bit of breathing room and arenβt overcrowded.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, tossing them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Serve the Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Spice: Feel free to increase or decrease the chili flakes to suit your preferred spice level. For a milder dish, use less, or omit entirely.
- Crispier Sprouts: For extra crispy Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts, roast them at a higher temperature (425Β°F) and ensure theyβre spread out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will result in steaming rather than roasting.
- Add-ins: For a flavor twist, try adding bacon, chopped pecans, or walnuts during the last few minutes of roasting for extra texture and richness.
- Make it Ahead: These Brussels sprouts reheat well! Prepare them in advance and warm them up in a hot pan for a quick side dish during busy holidays.