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These honey balsamic Brussels sprouts deliver the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Roasted until golden brown with crispy edges and tender centers, they're finished with a glossy glaze that transforms them into an irresistible side dish that even vegetable skeptics will love.
This roasting technique elevates humble Brussels sprouts into a standout dish that consistently earns rave reviews at family gatherings and dinner parties alike.
Key Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts: Select fresh, firm sprouts with tight, bright green leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil: Creates perfect caramelization and adds richness
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps achieve golden browning
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds complex tangy notes that balance the sweetness
The quality of these simple ingredients directly impacts the final dish. Choose aged balsamic vinegar for its deeper flavor and local honey for the best results.
Preparation Method
- Prep Work:
- Trim stems and remove loose outer leaves. Halve larger sprouts for even cooking.
- Roasting:
- Roast at 450°F on a preheated sheet pan, cut sides down for maximum caramelization.
- Glaze Making:
- Combine honey and balsamic until smooth and glossy.
- Finishing:
- Toss hot roasted sprouts with glaze until evenly coated.
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High-temperature roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while creating irresistibly crispy edges - a far cry from the overcooked versions many remember from childhood.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed sprouts pair beautifully with roasted meats, especially pork tenderloin or beef roasts. They also complement grain dishes like quinoa or wild rice, adding welcome texture and flavor contrast.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with additions like toasted nuts, crispy bacon, or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs such as thyme or sage can add aromatic depth to the dish.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a hot oven until crisp, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
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This proven method consistently produces restaurant-quality Brussels sprouts with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The honey-balsamic glaze transforms a simple vegetable into an elegant side dish worthy of any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know if the Brussels sprouts are ready after roasting?
- Look for golden brown tops with crispy edges. The sprouts should also be soft and pierce easily with a fork after 20-25 minutes at 450°F.
- → Can I make these sprouts ahead and reheat them later?
- Absolutely! Roast them beforehand and warm them back up in the oven. Just wait to coat them with the honey-balsamic glaze until you’re ready to serve.
- → Why should I roast the cut surfaces of the sprouts facing down?
- Keeping the cut sides down helps them caramelize better, creating that delicious golden crust.
- → Can I swap fresh Brussels sprouts for frozen ones?
- Fresh sprouts are best here! Frozen ones don’t roast as well and can end up too soft.
- → What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels sprouts?
- Pop them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until they’re nicely warm.