Introduction
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Raisins is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors. This recipe takes the traditional Brussels sprout dish to new heights by adding crispy bacon, rich golden raisins, and a hint of apple cider vinegar for an unexpected zesty twist. It’s a hearty side that pairs well with any roasted meat or can be enjoyed on its own as a unique vegetarian option.
Tips for this recipe
To achieve the best results, ensure your Brussels sprouts are evenly trimmed and halved to promote uniform cooking. Use high-quality bacon that can crisp up without overcooking in the pan. The key is balancing the saltiness of the bacon with the sweetness of the raisins; adjust seasonings as needed to cater to your taste preference.
Why you will love this recipe
This dish appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers, offering a unique take on Brussels sprouts with indulgent bacon bits that provide richness without overwh dominating the natural flavors of the greens. The inclusion of raisins adds an unexpected touch of sweetness and texture that complements the savory components beautifully.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon olive oil, 2 thick slices bacon, 4 cups Brussels sprouts (about 1 pound), trimmed and halved, Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 cup golden raisins, 1 medium shallot, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1/2 cup low-salt chicken broth, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar.
Advised equipments
Vegetable Trimmer: Efficiently trims Brussels sprouts for even cooking. Dutch Oven: Ideal for slow-cooking dishes and can be used if roasting elements of the recipe. Meat Tenderizer (Optional): Useful for preparing bacon with a tender texture before rendering fat. Fry Pan or Skillet: Necessary for cooking bacon and possibly other components in this recipe. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and flipping during the cooking process. Measuring Cups & Sets: Essential for precise ingredient measurements, especially for dressings and syrups with raisins. Cutting Board: Needed to safely chop vegetables and meat. Mixing Bowls (Multiple sizes): For mixing ingredients during the preparation phase. Serving Dish: To present your dish beautifully.
History of the recipe
The culinary world has seen a myriad of variations to Brussels sprouts, but this particular combination of bacon and raisins is not deeply rooted in traditional European cooking methods. It reflects contemporary global cuisine’s propensity for incorporating diverse flavors into familiar dishes. While the exact origins are unknown, the fusion concept behind Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Raisins showcases modern culinary innovation rather than a historical recipe passed down through generations.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know that bacon infused dishes, while not new, have seen a resurgence in popularity with the rise of ‘fancy’ cooking trends? Bacon is known to enhance flavors due to its rich salty and fat content. Raisins add a touch of sweetness but also provide antiociplines such as fiber and vitamins C, B1, and B6. The combination of bacon with raisins in a Brussels sprouts recipe may sound unusual, but it’s an example of chefs experimenting to push the boundaries of classic dishes.