How to Grill Brussels Sprouts With a Bacon And Maple Glaze

To grill brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze, preheat your grill, skewer the sprouts, coat them with oil and seasonings, and grill until tender and charred, brushing with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy side dish to add to your summer grilling menu, consider trying out grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze.

This delicious recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled brussels sprouts with the sweet and savory flavors of a bacon and maple glaze, making it the perfect accompaniment to any grilled meat or seafood dish. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for how to grill brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze that’s sure to impress your guests at your next barbecue.

So fire up your grill and get ready to start cooking!

Credit: reciperunner.com

Preparing The Brussels Sprouts

Grilled brussels sprouts are a crunchy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone dish. With the addition of a savory bacon and sweet maple glaze, these brussels sprouts will be a hit at any barbecue.

We’ll go through the steps to make this delicious dish, starting with purchasing the best brussels sprouts.

Purchasing The Best Brussels Sprouts:

When buying the brussels sprouts for this recipe, there are some key things to look out for:

• Choose firm and tight sprouts with bright green leaves.
• Avoid sprouts that have yellow or brown leaves, which could indicate that they are old.
• Look for sprouts that are similar in size, which will help them cook evenly.
• Buy organic brussels sprouts when possible to avoid any pesticides being used on them.

Trimming And Cutting The Brussels Sprouts:

Once you have purchased the brussels sprouts, it’s time to prepare them for grilling.

• Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves of the sprouts and discard them.
• Trim the bottoms of the sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise.

By cutting the sprouts in half lengthwise, it makes them easier to grill, and they cook quicker, resulting in a delicious charred exterior and a tender interior.

Preparing The Bacon And Maple Glaze:

The final step is to prepare the bacon and maple glaze that gives these brussels sprouts their mouth-watering sweetness and savory flavor.

• Cook 4-5 slices of bacon until crisp in a frying pan or on a grill. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and crumble it.
• In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard.
• Mix the crumbled bacon into the glaze.

This glaze mixture will add the perfect touch of sweetness and savory flavor to the brussels sprouts.

These grilled brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze are a perfect side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of grilled meats. With the tips outlined you’ll be able to cook perfectly grilled brussels sprouts every time, no matter the occasion.

Pre-Heating Your Grill

Grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze are the perfect appetizer or side dish to any outdoor grilling occasion. However, before you can get started with this delicious recipe, you need to make sure your grill is pre-heated to the right temperature for optimal cooking.

In this section, we’ll go over everything you need to know about pre-heating your gas or charcoal grill, including intensity setting tips.

Getting Your Grill Ready – Gas, Charcoal

Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to ensure that your grill is clean and free of any debris that could affect the taste of your food.

• For a gas grill, make sure to check your propane tank and connect the hoses and burners correctly.
• For a charcoal grill, start by placing the charcoal in a pyramid shape at the bottom and then use lighter fluid or a chimney starter for lighting the charcoal.

Pre-Heat Intensity Setting Tips

Getting the temperature right is one of the keys to achieving perfectly grilled brussels sprouts.

• Gas grills: Turn on all burners to high heat for at least 10-15 minutes to reach the ideal temperature of 450°f.
• Charcoal grills: Preheat for about 15-20 minutes, making sure that all of the coals are hot and have turned gray before you put the brussels sprouts on the grill.

By following these crucial pre-heating tips, you can get your grill ready for grilling a delicious side of brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze that your guests will love.

Remember to always be careful when handling hot grills and to follow safety measures. Now that you’ve learned how to pre-heat your grill, it’s time to start preparing the delicious brussels sprouts.

Grilling The Brussels Sprouts

Grilling brussels sprouts is a delicious way to add some smoky flavor to this healthy vegetable. Combined with a bacon and maple glaze, this dish is perfect for outdoor summer barbecues or as a unique side dish for a cozy winter dinner party.

In this section, we’ll go over the key elements of grilling brussels sprouts, helpful flame management techniques, and grill placement tips to ensure that your sprouts turn out perfectly every time.

Key Elements Of Grilling Brussels Sprouts

• Choose brussels sprouts that are similar in size so that they cook evenly.
• Rinse the brussels sprouts and dry them well before prepping them for the grill.
• Cut off any browned or yellowed leaves from the brussels sprouts.
• Cut the brussels sprouts in half and coat them with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Season the brussels sprouts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill.

Helpful Flame Management Techniques

• Start by heating the grill to medium-high heat.
• Make sure that the grilling surface is clean and well-oiled before placing the brussels sprouts on it.
• Place the brussels sprouts cut-side down on the grill grate. This will help them cook evenly and create those beautiful grill marks.
• Keep an eye on the heat of the grill and adjust it as needed to ensure that the sprouts don’t burn. If you have a gas grill, you can control the heat by adjusting the burners. If you have a charcoal grill, you can add or remove coals to adjust the heat.

Grill Placement Techniques

• If you have a gas grill, place the brussels sprouts on the grilling surface directly above the burner.
• If you have a charcoal grill, create a space in the center of the coals, where the brussels sprouts can cook without direct heat.
• Turn the brussels sprouts over after 5-7 minutes and cook them for an additional 5 minutes on the other side. They should be tender and slightly charred.

By following these key tips for grilling brussels sprouts, you can create a delicious side dish that is both healthy and flavorful. Experiment with different seasonings and glazes to find the perfect combination for your tastes. Enjoy!

Applying The Bacon And Maple Glaze

The bacon and maple glaze is what makes these grilled brussels sprouts so irresistible. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with a hint of smokiness that compliments the sprouts perfectly.

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the sprouts from the marinade and place them directly on the grill grates. Reserve the marinade for later use.
• Grill the sprouts for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are lightly charred and tender.
• Brush the glaze generously onto the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of grilling. Be sure to coat each sprout thoroughly with the glaze.
• Continue grilling the sprouts until the glaze has caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
• Remove the sprouts from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Be sure to spoon any remaining glaze over the top of the sprouts for added flavor.

With a little bit of patience and some expert grilling techniques, you can create a delicious and healthy side dish that your family and friends will love. So fire up that grill and get ready to impress!

Achieving The Perfect Temperature And Texture

Ideal Temperature For Grilled Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to grilling brussels sprouts, perfecting the temperature is vital for achieving a deliciously crispy exterior and soft interior. Follow these recommended steps for a perfectly cooked sprout.

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°f).
• Brush your brussels sprouts with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
• Place your sprouts directly on the grates, cut side facing down, and move them to an indirect heat zone.
• Close the grill lid and let the sprouts grill for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 135°f.

Monitoring Texture During The Cooking Process

To achieve a perfectly tender but not overcooked brussels sprout, closely monitor the texture during the grilling process. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• After 5-7 minutes, check the sprouts with a fork to ensure they are browning correctly.
• Flip them and check the other side for even coloring.
• If the sprouts are not yet done, close the lid again and continue grilling, checking them every few minutes to prevent overcooking.
• At the end of cooking, remove any undesirable components such as burnt leaves before serving.
• Serve brussels sprouts immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Now that you know how to achieve the perfect temperature and texture, surprise your loved ones with a delicious grilled brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze recipe!

Adjusting The Flavors

Grilled brussels sprouts are a fantastic dish worth adding to your grilling repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice, you’ll enjoy preparing this delicious vegetable with the perfect bacon and maple glaze. But how do you perfectly balance the flavors of bacon, maple, and brussels sprouts for a stellar finish?

Here are some top tips for adjusting the flavors to suit your palate.

Adding Maple Sweetness To Taste

• While some like it sweet, others prefer their brussels sprouts saltier. So, first and foremost, taste your dish and get a sense of where you are with sweetness levels.
• Add maple syrup in teaspoons while tasting the sprouts after each addition to achieve your desired sweetness level.
• If it turns out you’ve gone too far with the sweetness, dash some salt or apple cider vinegar into the mix.

Adjusting The Saltiness

• If you have a saltier palate, you might make the bacon glaze with a little less maple syrup than called for in the recipe.
• Or you can add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors of the dish.

Achieving The Perfect Bacon Flavor

• Do you feel your dish needs more bacon flavor? Add some crispy bacon pieces or bacon grease to the brussels sprouts after grilling.
• For less bacon flavor, add a teaspoon of vinegar to cut the saltiness and bacon flavor.

With these tips in hand, you can adjust the levels of each flavor to create a perfectly balanced dish that suits your preferences. Happy grilling!

Variations

How to grill brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze – variations

While the classic bacon and maple glaze is a crowd-pleaser, not everyone can enjoy it as it’s not vegetarian or vegan. Thankfully, there are several ways to make this recipe more inclusive. Here are some variations to suit different dietary requirements.

Vegetarian Or Vegan Alternative

• Instead of using bacon, try using vegan bacon bits or smoked paprika to add smokiness to the dish.
• Swap maple syrup for agave syrup or brown sugar for a vegan-friendly glaze.
• Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of bacon grease for tossing the brussels sprouts.

Pro tip: for extra flavor, add garlic, onion powder, or chili powder to the glaze for a kick.

Remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to these suggestions. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your favorite version of this dish.

Happy Grilling!

Presentation And Sides

Arranging The Grilled Brussels Sprouts Artistically

The presentation of your dish is almost as essential as the taste, especially if you’re serving guests. You can arrange your grilled brussels sprouts artistically on a serving dish to make them look more appetizing.

• Use a large, flat serving dish to have plenty of room for the brussels sprouts.
• Place the brussels sprouts in a single layer to avoid overcrowding.
• Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for color and fragrance.
• Alternatively, you can sprinkle some chopped bacon or toasted nuts on top of the sprouts.

Sides To Accompany Your Dish

No meal is complete without side dishes.

• Mashed sweet potatoes: These sweet and savory sweet potatoes are an excellent match for the rich flavors of the roasted brussels sprouts. You can serve them in individual ramekins or a large serving bowl for sharing.
• Garlic roasted potatoes: This side dish packs a punch of flavor. Simply toss the potatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
• Roasted carrots and parsnips: Cut the carrots and parsnips into similar-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
• Grilled corn on the cob: Lightly brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat until lightly charred.

Now you have a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your family. Enjoy!

Health Benefits Of Grilled Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish to add to your grilled meals, consider adding brussels sprouts to your menu. These tiny cruciferous vegetables are exploding with nutrients and offer a variety of essential health benefits.

Nutritional Benefits Of Brussels Sprouts

• Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of fiber, making them an excellent choice for weight management and digestive health.
• They are loaded with vitamin c and vitamin k, which play a vital role in maintaining good health.
• Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants that help fight against inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and boost the immune system.
• These veggies are rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, and manganese, which can help regulate blood pressure and prevent heart disease.
• They contain sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Risks To Watch Out For

• Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of vitamin k, which can interfere with blood-thinning medications. If you’re taking medication, talk to your doctor before consuming large amounts of brussels sprouts.
• Consuming large amounts of brussels sprouts can cause bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts. It’s best to start with small portions and gradually increase your consumption.

Grilled brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients that offer an array of health benefits. By adding this delicious side dish to your grilled meals, you’ll not only enjoy the taste, but also improve your overall health and well-being.

Tips For Cleaning Your Grill

Grilling brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze might seem like a daunting task, but with these easy tips for cleaning your grill, you’ll be savoring the delicious flavors in no time.

Ensure Hygienic Practices While Cleaning

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to make sure that your grill is clean and free of any debris or bacteria.

• Turn your grill on high heat for 10-15 minutes to burn off any excess food or grease.
• Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any remaining debris from the grates.
• Scrub the grates with a mixture of warm water and soap and rinse thoroughly.
• For a deeper clean, you can also remove the grates and soak them in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Use The Right Tools

Using the right tools is essential for effective and safe grill cleaning.

• Use a stainless steel or brass wire brush to scrape off any debris from the grates. Avoid using any wire brushes with bristles that can break off and contaminate your food.
• Invest in a good quality grill scraper with a long handle to reach any hard-to-reach areas.
• For a more thorough clean, use a grill stone or pumice stone to remove any stubborn stains or debris.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the longevity of your grill and ensure that it functions efficiently.

• Make sure to clean your grill after every use to prevent any build-up of grease or debris.
• Cover your grill when it’s not in use to protect it from debris and weather conditions.
• Every season, give your grill a deep clean by taking it apart and cleaning all the components thoroughly.

Grilling brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze can be a delicious addition to any meal. By following these simple tips for cleaning your grill, you can ensure that your food is safe, delicious, and cooked to perfection. Happy grilling!

Storing Your Leftover Brussels Sprouts

Grilled brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze is a scrumptious side dish that you can add to your dinner menu. If you are wondering how to store leftover brussels sprouts, we have got you covered. Keep reading to discover some hacks on how to spice up your leftover brussels sprouts.

Proper Storage In The Fridge:

As with any leftovers, the key to keeping the brussels sprouts fresh and tasty is the proper storage.

• Make sure the grilled brussels sprouts have completely cooled down to room temperature before storing them
• Store the leftovers in a tightly sealed container or a zip-lock bag
• Keep the container or the bag in the refrigerator
• Consume the leftover brussels sprouts within three to four days of cooking them.

Hacks To Spice Up Leftovers:

Are you bored of eating the same leftover brussels sprouts every day?

• Reheat the leftover brussels sprouts in a pan with some butter, garlic, and lemon juice
• Chop the leftovers and add them to your morning omelet
• Toss the leftover brussels sprouts in a salad along with some nuts, cheese, and dressing
• Add the leftover brussels sprouts to a quiche or frittata
• Mash the leftover brussels sprouts and mix them with mashed potatoes to make a unique side dish.

So, next time you have leftover brussels sprouts, try out these hacks to make them more interesting and flavorful. With the right storage techniques and the right hacks, you can enjoy delicious grilled brussels sprouts for days. Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze might not be the most well-known grill dish, but it is certainly a tasty one. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your main course or a flavorful vegetarian option, grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze is an excellent pick.

In this section, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions related to grilling these delicious sprouts.

Faq 1: How Can I Prepare Brussels Sprouts For The Grill?

When it comes to preparing brussels sprouts for the grill, there are a few steps to follow:

• Rinse the sprouts under running water and remove the outer leaves if they are yellowed or wilted.
• Trim the ends of the sprouts and cut them in half.
• Toss the sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Faq 2: How Long Should I Grill Brussels Sprouts?

Grilling brussels sprouts doesn’t take too much time.

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Arrange the sprouts on the grill, cut sides down.
• Grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and lightly charred.
• Flip the sprouts halfway through the grilling process.

Faq 3: Can I Use Different Glazes For Grilled Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! While bacon and maple glaze is a delicious pairing with grilled brussels sprouts, it’s not the only option.

• Balsamic glaze: Toss the grilled brussels sprouts in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
• Garlic and herb butter: Add a touch of garlic and herbs to melted butter and brush on the sprouts before and after grilling.
• Dijon mustard and honey: Whisk together dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil and drizzle over the sprouts before grilling.

Now that you know some of the most frequently asked questions regarding grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze, you can confidently grill these delicious treats to perfection. Happy grilling!

Troubleshooting

Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze is one of the tastiest side dishes to grill. The crispy bacon bits and sweet maple glaze perfectly complement the nutty flavor of the sprouts. However, grilling brussels sprouts can be a bit tricky.

In this section, we will discuss some common mistakes and how to fix them to get perfectly grilled sprouts every time.

Common Mistakes When Grilling Brussels Sprouts

Grilling brussels sprouts may sound easy, but many things can go wrong.

• Not prepping the sprouts properly: One of the most common mistakes people make is not prepping the sprouts correctly. This can result in uneven cooking and a bitter taste. Make sure to trim the stems and cut the sprouts in half.
• Using too much heat: High heat can quickly burn the sprouts on the outside while keeping them raw on the inside. To avoid this, use medium heat and keep a close eye on the sprouts.
• Sticking the sprouts to the grill: Brussels sprouts are fragile and can easily stick to the grill grates. Make sure to oil the grates and toss the sprouts in oil to prevent sticking.

Solutions To The Common Issues

Now that we have identified some common mistakes in grilling brussels sprouts let’s discuss how to fix them.

• Prep the sprouts properly: To ensure even cooking and prevent bitterness, make sure to trim the stems and cut the sprouts in half.
• Adjust the heat: Use medium heat and check the sprouts often to ensure even cooking. Move the sprouts around the grill to ensure they cook evenly.
• Use oil: Toss the sprouts in oil before grilling to prevent sticking. You can also oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
• Use a skewer: If you are concerned about the sprouts sticking to the grill, try using a skewer to hold them together. This will also make it easier to move them around the grill.
• Add the maple glaze at the right time: To prevent the glaze from burning, add it in the last few minutes of grilling. This will ensure that the sprouts are cooked through before adding the glaze.
• Use a foil packet: If you are still having trouble with even cooking, try grilling the sprouts in a foil packet. This method will require a bit more cooking time, but it will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Grilling brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glaze can be a delicious side dish if done correctly. By following these tips for troubleshooting common issues, you can have perfectly grilled sprouts every time.

Bonus Recipe

Grilled brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze – does it get any better than that? We think not. But we’ve got a bonus recipe that’s just as amazing! Here’s our additional recipe with similar ingredients that can complement grilled brussels sprouts.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes With A Mustard Glaze

• Peel sweet potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes
• Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper
• Roast in the oven at 400°f for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and tender
• In a small bowl, mix together 1 tbsp whole grain mustard, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• Drizzle the mustard glaze over the roasted sweet potatoes and toss to coat evenly.

The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish pairs perfectly with the rich and smoky flavors of the grilled brussels sprouts. Give it a try at your next barbecue or weeknight dinner, and we guarantee it’ll be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Grill Brussels Sprouts With A Bacon And Maple Glaze

How Long Does It Take To Grill Brussels Sprouts?

Grill for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely charred and crispy.

Can I Grill Brussels Sprouts Without A Skewer?

Yes. Toss brussels sprouts in olive oil and grill them on a grill basket or foil.

How Do You Prepare Brussels Sprouts For Grilling?

Trim the stem ends, cut sprouts in half, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

How Should I Cook Bacon For The Glaze?

Fry bacon in a pan until it is crispy then chop it.

What Is The Bacon And Maple Glaze Made Of?

A mixture of maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and crumbled bacon.

Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead Of Regular Bacon?

Yes. Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to regular bacon.

What Can I Substitute For Maple Syrup In The Glaze?

Honey, agave nectar or brown sugar can be used as substitutes for maple syrup.

What Are Some Variations Of The Brussels Sprouts Recipe?

Add garlic, red pepper flakes, balsamic glaze, soy sauce, or lemon juice for some tasty twists.

How Do I Prevent The Glaze From Burning On The Grill?

Baste the brussels sprouts with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.

What Are Some Dishes To Serve With Grilled Brussels Sprouts?

Grilled pork chops, steak, or salmon make tasty pairings with grilled brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

Grilling brussels sprouts can be an exciting way to add a tasty twist to your meals. With the right ingredients and technique, you can achieve a dish that is both healthy and delicious. The combination of bacon and maple glaze offers an irresistible aroma and flavor that will wow your taste buds.

Through this blog post, we have explored the steps involved in grilling brussels sprouts with a bacon and maple glaze. From preparing the sprouts to cooking them on the grill, this recipe is easy to follow and prepare. While experimenting with different seasoning and glaze options can be great to enhance the taste, the bacon and maple glaze is a showstopper that guarantees a full, delightful and satisfying meal! So, why not put your grill skills to the test and give this recipe a try?