Caramelized with crispy bacon and sweetened with apples and apple cider, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to be a hit—expect it to convert even the most unenthusiastic Brussels sprouts eater. It comes together quickly and has all the elements of a great side dish—hearty veggies studded with crispy, salty bacon, sweet apples and crunchy pecans—and it's ideal for your holiday table.
Ingredients for Cider-Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Apples
1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, cut lengthwise in half
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium shallot, finely chopped
1 small tart apple, cored and diced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 cup (125 ml) apple cider or juice
1/2 cup (125 ml) pecans, toasted
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions for Cider-Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Apples
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil and cook Brussels sprouts for 5–6 min, until tender-crisp. Drain well.
- While sprouts are cooking, heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high and sauté bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Sauté shallots in the bacon drippings until tender, scraping up any brown bits, then add Brussels sprouts. Let them caramelize a bit on the cut sides, then add apple and thyme.
- Deglaze the pan with apple cider or juice. (NOTE: This just means you add liquid to a hot pan to help make a pan sauce or gravy.)
- Cook on high until liquid is reduced and Brussels sprouts are tender but not mushy. Toss in bacon and pecans, then season with pepper and serve warm.
Serves 6. Originally published in ParentsCanada magazine, November 2012.
