Description
Jamie Oliver’s Brussels sprouts and bacon dish blends crispy, smoky goodness with festive charm. Rich bacon complements caramelized sprouts, creating a mouthwatering side that promises to elevate any meal you serve.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Nuts:
- 6 rashers higher-welfare smoked streaky bacon
- 200 grams (7 ounces) roasted and peeled chestnuts
Main Vegetable:
- 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) Brussels sprouts
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 2 onions
- 15 grams (0.5 ounces) fresh sage
- Olive oil
- 2 large knobs unsalted butter
Instructions
- Meticulously peel and dice the onions into uniform cubes. Delicately pluck and mince the sage leaves into fine fragments. Carefully trim the Brussels sprouts, discarding any wilted or discolored outer leaves. Slice larger Brussels sprouts in half to ensure even cooking.
- Position a generously sized skillet over medium heat. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of extra virgin olive oil and introduce bacon strips, roughly chopped into 1/2-inch (1.27 centimeters) pieces. Sauté until edges turn crisp and golden brown. Incorporate whole chestnuts and continue cooking until they develop a rich, deep golden color.
- Gently introduce the finely chopped onions and sage into the skillet. Reduce flame to low heat, allowing ingredients to slowly caramelize and develop complex flavors. Stir intermittently during the 25-30 minute cooking process to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Simultaneously, fill a separate large pot with water. Add 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt and bring to a rolling boil. Carefully submerge Brussels sprouts and cook for 4-6 minutes, maintaining a slight crispness while ensuring tenderness.
- Drain Brussels sprouts thoroughly using a colander. Transfer them directly into the bacon and chestnut mixture. Add 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of unsalted butter, gently folding to coat evenly. Season with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt to taste. Serve piping hot or refrigerate and reheat when desired.
Notes
- Roast the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature to achieve that coveted crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside.
- Trim and halve the sprouts to maximize caramelization and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
- Bacon introduces a smoky depth that transforms these humble vegetables into an irresistible side dish.
- Chestnuts bring a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that perfectly complements the sprouts’ earthy flavor.
- Sage provides an aromatic herbaceous touch that elevates the entire flavor profile with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: UK
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 234mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 22mg