How to Make Tangy Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A Simple Recipe
Brussels sprouts have gotten a bad reputation over the years, often dismissed as the least loved vegetable on the dinner plate. But let’s be honest—they’re delicious when cooked the right way! In fact, this tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts recipe is proof that these little green gems can be transformed into a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or just want a quick side dish for your weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
In this blog, we’ll show you a simple step-by-step guide to making caramelized, crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the results are restaurant-quality. Let’s get started!
What Makes These Brussels Sprouts So Special?
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of roasted Brussels sprouts. Add a touch of honey (or maple syrup, for a vegan-friendly option) and a sprinkle of seasoning, and you’ve got a dish that’s savory, sweet, tangy, and bursting with deliciousness. Plus, the crispy edges of the sprouts are impossible to resist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts:
- 1 pound (450 grams) of Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Optional toppings: Crushed nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or grated Parmesan cheese for a little extra crunch and flavor.
That’s it—just six ingredients (plus optional toppings) to create this crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring your tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts to life:
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by rinsing your Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, trim the stems and remove any discolored outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise. Cutting them in half helps them cook evenly and creates more surface area for caramelization, which means crispier, tastier sprouts.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting Brussels sprouts at a high temperature ensures they turn golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
Step 3: Season and Toss
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated—this is key for even roasting. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Be sure not to overcrowd them; spacing them apart allows them to roast properly and prevents sogginess.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the sprouts halfway through. You’re looking for crispy edges and a tender center. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness and creates a beautiful golden-brown color.
Step 5: Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the sprouts are roasting, it’s time to prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Don’t walk away from the pan—it can burn quickly! Once done, remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside.
Step 6: Toss with the Glaze
When the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, take them out of the oven. Transfer them to a clean mixing bowl and pour the balsamic glaze over the top. Toss gently to coat the sprouts evenly in the glossy glaze.
Step 7: Add Optional Toppings
If you want to elevate the dish even further, sprinkle the roasted sprouts with crushed nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or grated Parmesan cheese. These toppings add extra texture and flavor, making the dish even more irresistible.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Your tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are ready to serve! Transfer them to a serving platter and watch them disappear. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, steak, or any protein of your choice. It’s also great as a vegetarian side dish or a snack on its own!
Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
- Choose fresh sprouts: Look for bright green Brussels sprouts that feel firm and heavy. Avoid ones with yellow or wilted leaves.
- Don’t skip the flipping: Turning the sprouts midway through roasting ensures they cook evenly and caramelize on all sides.
- Adjust the sweetness: You can tweak the amount of honey or maple syrup to match your taste preference. If you like a tangier glaze, use less sweetener.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Requires minimal ingredients
- Full of flavor with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy
- Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
- Great for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep
Final Thoughts
Tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a game-changer, even for those who’ve shied away from this veggie in the past. With its caramelized flavors and crowd-pleasing glaze, this recipe makes the humble Brussels sprouts shine. Try it out—you might just convert a few skeptics into Brussels sprouts fans!
Give it a go and let us know how it turns out. We guarantee this dish will keep coming back onto your table again and again. Happy cooking! 🌱
