Maple Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Brussels sprouts: These small, green vegetables are part of the cabbage family and have a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with sweet flavors.

Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps to roast the brussels sprouts to a golden brown while adding a subtle flavor.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener made from the sap of maple trees, it adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish, complementing the sweetness and earthiness of the brussels sprouts.

To ensure your brussels sprouts cook evenly and achieve a perfect caramelization, make sure to cut them into uniform sizes. When tossing the brussels sprouts with olive oil and maple syrup, ensure they are well-coated but not drenched, as too much liquid can cause them to steam rather than roast. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika before roasting.

• brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli florets have a similar texture and can be roasted to achieve a comparable flavor profile.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for roasting vegetables.

• maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a similar sweetness and can caramelize well when roasted, offering a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, which can complement the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup.

• Allow the brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled brussels sprouts to an airtight container. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Spread the brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the brussels sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their crispiness.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed. This method adds a bit of extra caramelization.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the brussels sprouts mushy and less appealing.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy again.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover brussels sprouts and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and have a nice, crispy exterior.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover brussels sprouts in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through, until they are heated evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover brussels sprouts on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to roast the brussels sprouts at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Mixing bowl: Essential for tossing the brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread the brussels sprouts in a single layer for even roasting.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the brussels sprouts halfway through the roasting process to ensure even cooking.

• Knife: Required for trimming and halving the brussels sprouts before tossing them with the other ingredients.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for trimming and halving the brussels sprouts.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the brussels sprouts to save time.

Use pre-trimmed brussels sprouts: Purchase pre-trimmed and halved brussels sprouts to cut down on prep time.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Mix in a large bowl: Toss the brussels sprouts in a large bowl to ensure even coating with olive oil and maple syrup.

Stir halfway through: Stir the brussels sprouts halfway through roasting for even cooking and to prevent burning.