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Crispy Charred Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Maple Balsamic Glaze and Walnuts for Easy Healthy Sides

crispy charred brussels sprouts - featured image

This recipe features crispy charred Brussels sprouts glazed with a sweet and tangy maple balsamic sauce and topped with toasted walnuts for a crunchy, flavorful side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons pure grade A maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
  • ½ cup (about 60g) walnuts, roughly chopped and toasted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (can substitute with vegan butter)

Instructions

  1. Trim the stem ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise. (About 10 minutes)
  2. Toast the chopped walnuts on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer in the skillet. Let them sear without moving for about 5-7 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes until tender but still firm. Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a syrupy consistency.
  6. Drizzle the glaze over the cooked Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Add the toasted walnuts and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook together for another minute to marry flavors.
  7. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not wash Brussels sprouts until just before cooking to maintain crispiness. Use high heat for searing to get a good char. Toast walnuts separately in the oven to avoid burning. If glaze thickens too much, loosen with a teaspoon of water. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. For vegan option, substitute butter with vegan butter and ensure balsamic vinegar is vegan. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts, maple balsamic glaze, walnuts, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe, gluten-free, vegan option