Beer and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Beer and Bacon Brussels Sprouts are pan roasted in the bacon grease, then braised in beer for an added deep flavor. Simmered in a wheat ale, this dish has an unforgettable taste!
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Pan Roasted Beer and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
These beer glazed brussels sprouts topped with crumbled bacon are the perfect side dish to any dinner. I have made these for Thanksgiving, Easter, etc. They soak up all the bacon grease and beer, making them so tender and delishious. It’s hard to stop at one serving!
Brussels sprouts are a family favorite in my house. We eat them on a weekly basis, usually pan roasting them with oil and garlic, but once in a while, I get a little wild and spill a whole bottle of beer in that pan, and crush a little bacon to give it that extra salt and kick of flavor. The best part is yet to come- toss a little red pepper flakes on it and BOOM! You got yourself a kickin’ side dish.. and might I recommend you pair it with my One Pan Bacon and Dijon Mustard Chicken.
Perfectly Roasted With Bacon and Beer
It’s hard to pass up a delicious recipe using both bacon and beer. I can’t promise this is the healthiest recipe on my blog, but I can say for sure this is a fabulous dish.
How are brussels sprouts healthy?
Brussles sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable, and are related to vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy, kale, and collard greens. They are a cool weather seasonal vegetable, and are in season from late fall to early spring.
In a half cup of brussels sprouts there is (measured in daily value):
- 28 calories
- 2 grams of protein
- 137% vitamin K
- 81% vitamin C
- 12% vitamin A
- 12% folate
- 9% manganese (a vitamin many lack)
- 7% B6
- 7% potassium
That’s not all! They also contain thiamine, iron, riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin E, niacin, pantothenic acid, choline, betaine, calcium, zinc, copper, and selenium. So what does all this mean? These brussles sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients! With high amounts of vitamin K, brussles sprouts are one of the highest containing vegetables to eat! Vitamin K is responsible for skeletal health and bone loss prevention. Vitamin C is the next runner up in this high nutrient vegetable. Vitamin C is a favorite for many people during the winter season, as it builds the immune system, reduces inflammation, and prevents cellular damage by acting as a protective antioxidant.
Chef’s Tips
- Thick cut hickory smoked bacon is the way to go! This adds another layer of smokey flavor to compliment the bitterness of the wheat ale and the brussles sprouts
- Cook bacon on a cold cast iron- do not pre heat the pan! This prevents the bacon from shrinking too much.
- Wheat ale adds a light, but full bodied flavor, making it a secondary flavor to this dish. Pale ales also pair well with this dish, but stay clear of heavier beers like porters or stouts, as their flavor will take over.
- Cast iron pans are great for cooking, but especially for this dish! It heats evenly, providing perfectly seared brussles sprouts.
- Leave the bacon grease in the pan after removing the cooked bacon. The grease is used to coat the brussles sprouts, then sear them, adding extra flavor and tenderness.
Add A Main Dish
- Ten Minute Pizza Dough– need a quick, reliable recipe for the best New York style pizza you’ve ever tasted? Comes with a home made pizza sauce recipe that will blow the store bought right out of the water.
- Easy Loaded Vegetable Pot Pie– Every Meatless Monday deserves a kick ass recipe that the whole family will be begging for seconds! This pot pie is loaded with creamy vegetables and packed with nutrients!
- Crock Pot Balsamic Roast With Potatoes- an easy crock pot recipe for the days you just don’t have time, but still want a healthy, flavorful meal
- Paleo Swedish Meatballs– A true classic, this gluten free version is every bit of authentic and healthy. Move over, Ikea, Mama’s got a new favorite!
- Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff- What’s not to love? Creamy egg noodles with shredded, tender beef and mushrooms- a classic combination!
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Beer and Bacon Brussles Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussles sprouts
- 1 12 oz bottle of wheat ale beer
- 4 slices thick cut bacon
- 3 cloves garlic
Instructions
- Place bacon in a cold cast iron pan, and set it over medium heat. Cook until crispy, remove the bacon from the pan, keeping the grease in the pan.
- Slice brussels sprouts in half, then toss in the pan. Coat the brussles sprouts with the bacon grease well. Sear them for about 2-5 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Add a bottle of beer and chopped garlic to the pan. Lower heat to medium low, and cook for 10-15 more minutes. The beer will reduce to a glaze, and the Brussels sprouts will be tender and browned. Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired, Serve, and mangia!
Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.
