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Balsamic Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts

Perfectly crispy and caramelized, these roasted Brussels sprouts are coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic brown sugar glaze, making them an irresistible side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Vegetable
Cuisine: American, Fusion
Calories: 190

Ingredients
  

Brussels Sprouts & Initial Roast
  • 1.5 pounds Fresh Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Balsamic Glaze
  • 3 tablespoons Packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar high quality preferred

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Sturdy Baking Sheet
  • Small Whisk

Method
 

Part 1: Preparation and Initial Roast
  1. Preheat the Oven & Prep Pan: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, sturdy baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Prep Sprouts: Trim the dry, woody end off of each Brussels sprout and remove any loose outer leaves. Cut all of the sprouts in half lengthwise, ensuring a flat side is created on each half.
  3. Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle the garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper over the oil-coated sprouts. Toss vigorously until all sprouts are evenly coated.
  4. First Roast: Pour the seasoned sprouts onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer, ensuring that the cut sides are facing down. Roast for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are starting to brown and the sprouts are fork-tender.
Part 2: Glazing and Final Roasting
  1. Prepare the Glaze: While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture forms a sticky syrup.
  2. Apply Glaze: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the balsamic brown sugar glaze evenly over the roasted Brussels sprouts. Using a spatula, gently toss the sprouts right on the baking sheet to coat them completely with the glaze.
  3. Final Caramelization: Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. Watch carefully during this final step; the glaze should thicken and caramelize slightly, becoming very glossy but not burnt.
  4. Serve: Remove the sprouts from the oven immediately. Serve hot and fresh, scraping any remaining sticky caramelized glaze from the pan and drizzling it over the finished dish.

Notes

Ensure the sprouts are spread in a single layer during the first roast. Overcrowding the pan will cause them to steam instead of crisping. For an extra savory note, consider adding 1/4 cup of chopped, cooked bacon or pancetta during the final glazing step.