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As I stood in the kitchen, the rich aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts mingled with the sweet scent of maple syrup, drawing me in like a cozy hug. These Crispy Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts have become my go-to side dish, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. With a quick prep time that lets you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying, this recipe is not just a crowd-pleaser; it perfectly marries the nutty crunch of pecans with the sweet glaze of maple syrup. The result? A vibrant, flavorful addition to your table that elevates any meal, whether for a festive feast or a casual dinner. Curious about how to transform your simple Brussels sprouts into a delightful treat? Let’s dive in!
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Why are these Brussels sprouts irresistible?
Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Sweet-Savory Delight: The combination of maple syrup and crunchy pecans creates a taste that dances on your palate, leaving you craving more.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients, these Brussels sprouts offer a guilt-free indulgence, rich in vitamins and healthy fats.
Versatile Pairing: They complement a variety of mains, whether roasted meats or vegan dishes, making them a favorite for any occasion.
Crowd Appeal: Serve them at your next gathering, and watch how they enchant everyone at the table—you may just want to double the recipe!
For more exciting variations, check out the delicious twists in my Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Extravaganza.
Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Use fresh and firm Brussels sprouts for the best flavor; trim and halve them for even cooking.
• Salt – Adjust the amount based on your taste preference to enhance the overall flavor.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of mild spice that can be adjusted according to your liking.
• Chili Flakes (optional) – These can give your dish a nice kick; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
For the Sweet Glaze
• Maple Syrup – This is the star ingredient that provides the sweet glaze; alternative sweeteners may be used, but they may alter the flavor profile.
For the Crunch
• Pecans – These add a deliciously crunchy texture and nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with walnuts, chestnuts, or pine nuts for a twist.
Discover how these delightful Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts can enhance your next meal experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming the ends off the fresh Brussels sprouts, then slice them in half to ensure even cooking. Remove any dry outer leaves to keep them looking vibrant. Rinse the sprouts thoroughly under cool water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel; moisture can prevent them from getting crispy when pan-fried.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat 1.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it's hot enough. Carefully add the halved Brussels sprouts to the pan, cut side down. Allow them to fry undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a lovely golden-brown color and start to caramelize, enhancing their flavor.
Step 3: Add Pecans and Seasonings
Once the Brussels sprouts are nicely browned, stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they evenly coat the sprouts. Drizzle the maple syrup over the mixture, then sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir everything together well and continue to sauté for another 3 to 5 minutes until the sprouts are beautifully caramelized and just beginning to char.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Once the Brussels sprouts and pecans reach a crispy finish, remove the pan from heat. Serve the Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts immediately for the best texture and flavor. These delightful bites are perfect as a side dish or a festive addition to your holiday table, bursting with a balance of sweetness and crunch.
Expert Tips for Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts
Crispiness Matters: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure your Brussels sprouts get that perfect crispy finish—cook them in batches if needed.
Nutty Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the pecans separately before adding them to the dish. This enhances their nuttiness beautifully.
Sweet Balance: If you find the maple syrup too sweet, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance the flavors.
Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for best results, reheat in a skillet to maintain their crunch.
Serving Warm: These Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts are best served immediately, so coordinate with your meal timing for maximum flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps to maintain their flavor, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
Freezer: For freezing, allow the sprouts to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, the texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the Brussels sprouts in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. This will help restore their crispy texture, making them enjoyable again.
Avoid sogginess: If you plan to make them ahead, leave the pecans out until serving to prevent them from losing their delightful crunch.
Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to make these Brussels sprouts your own by exploring creative twists that will delight your taste buds!
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans and add crispy fried onions for a delicious crunch and new flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Include sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery twist that elevates your dish.
- Garlic Lovers: Sauté minced garlic along with the Brussels sprouts for an aromatic depth that complements the sweetness.
- Maple-Free: Substitute honey or agave syrup for a different sweetener that pairs just as well with the sprouts.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice over the finished dish to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
- Savory Depth: Mix in vegan bacon bits for an extra savory element, enriching the dish with smoky undertones.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for a fragrant herbal note that enhances every bite.
- Balsamic Bliss: Drizzle balsamic glaze on top before serving for an added layer of flavor that balances sweetness and acidity.
Let your imagination guide you to create variations that your family will love!
What to Serve with Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts?
Transform your festive meal with delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness and crunch of your favorite side dish.
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Roasted Chicken: The savory, tender meat beautifully complements the sweet and nutty flavors of the Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced plate.
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Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff: Earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce provide a hearty contrast to the crunchy sprouts, making for a filling vegan dinner.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, a colorful quinoa salad adds nutty tones and fresh ingredients that harmonize perfectly with the sweetness of the dish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes offer a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the crispy Brussels sprouts.
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Grilled Tofu Steaks: The smoky flavors from grilled tofu match well with the sweet maple glaze, making it a delicious plant-based option for your table.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a burst of acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the maple syrup, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay elegantly balances the richness of the Brussels sprouts, making it a delightful pairing for your holiday feast.
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Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of pecan pie echoes the nutty elements of the Brussels sprouts, creating a cohesive theme that delights the palate.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and trim the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. You can also chop the pecans and prepare the glaze (maple syrup, salt, and spices) ahead of time, making your cooking time even shorter. On the day you plan to serve them, simply sauté the Brussels sprouts as instructed until golden, then add in the pecans and maple mixture. This way, you'll enjoy that delightful crunch and flavor while saving valuable time on busy weeknights!
Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What type of Brussels sprouts should I use?
Absolutely! Always choose fresh and firm Brussels sprouts for the best flavor. Look for bright green sprouts without dark spots all over, as those are signs of overripeness. Trim the ends, halve them for even cooking, and remove any dry outer layers to enhance your dish.
How should I store leftover Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts?
You can store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor. However, they’re best served fresh, so I recommend consuming them soon after cooking.
Can I freeze Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the sprouts to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember that the texture may change once you thaw them, so reheat them gently in a skillet to help restore some of their original crunch.
What if my Brussels sprouts are soggy after cooking?
Very! If your Brussels sprouts end up soggy, this often happens when the pan is overcrowded. To avoid this, make sure there’s enough space in the pan for them to fry evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary, which will yield crispy results. And if they’re already cooked and soggy, briefly sautéing them in a hot pan can help crisp them up again.
Are these Brussels sprouts safe for people with nut allergies?
It's worth noting that this recipe includes pecans, which can be problematic for those with nut allergies. If you're preparing this dish for someone with a nut allergy, feel free to substitute the pecans with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a safe and crunchy alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety!
Irresistibly Crispy Pan Fried Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts, slice them in half, and rinse them under cool water. Pat dry.
- Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add halved Brussels sprouts cut side down and fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in chopped pecans, drizzle with maple syrup, and add salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
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