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I can’t think of a vegetable more polarizing than the Brussels Sprout and nothing more equalizing than bacon. Put the two together and you have a dish that at least… well… a handful of the people you know will like. And that is assuming they like mushrooms, too.
I shared a photo of Brussels Sprouts and Bacon on Instagram and was pleasantly surprised by the response, “Sweet baby Jesus. Is there a recipe?” inquired The Baub Show. And with a request like that, how could I refuse?
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups brussels sprouts, halved (about 6 oz.)
2 cups crimini mushrooms, halved (about 6 oz.)
1 piece cooked bacon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp butter
1 tsp soy sauce
black pepper to taste
NOTES: Makes about 3 cups. Serves 2-4. Serve as a side to steak and potatoes or toss with tomatoes, pasta and parmesan (as seen in the Instagram). Be sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready, brussels sprouts cook quickly. Do not overcook the brussels sprouts; that is how they can get the bitter aftertaste that repels so many!
Wash brussels sprouts thoroughly and remove any damaged or discolored outer leaves. Slice larger brussels sprouts in half, leave smaller ones intact. Clean mushrooms and slice larger ones in half.
In a pan over medium heat, cook bacon. Remove bacon, reserve grease if desired and wipe pan. In the same pan over medium heat, sear brussels sprouts, cut side down in 1 teaspoon reserved, skimmed bacon grease or 1 teaspoon olive oil.
When brussels sprouts are slightly browned (about 3 minutes) stir and add mushrooms. Continue cooking and stirring over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Add soy sauce. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes more.
Remove lid and add garlic and butter. Crumble in bacon pieces. Brussels sprouts should be soft, yet slightly crunchy towards the center.
Share (if you have any takers!) & enjoy.
This looks sooooooo yummy and simple! I think it’s official that brussel sprouts are back in action. I put them in a curry a few weeks ago, along side chicken, potatos and peppers… FANTASTIC.
Thanks, Zavida! Brussels Sprout Curry sounds excellent, too!
Sara, I love brussel sprouts and mushrooms… your photos are killing me. Didn’t know that overcooking resulted in a bitter taste, thanks for that tip. I be sure to stay off the computer while preparing my brussel sprouts in the future!
Thanks Betty. I happen to love brussel sprouts and mushrooms. I will definitely be giving this a try. I like mushrooms lightly cooked and it is nice to see a recipe that features them that way. Yum.
Awesome, FoodJunkie! Thanks for your comment and let me know how you like this combination :)