Brussels sprouts are often misunderstood, but with the right recipe, they can be a delightful addition to any meal. This Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts recipe combines sweet and savory flavors in a way that transforms these little green treasures into a must-try dish.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts. First, this dish is the perfect blend of sweet maple syrup and tangy orange, making it both delicious and appealing to people of all ages. Second, Brussels sprouts are nutritious, packed with vitamins C and K, and are a great source of fiber. Additionally, this recipe is quick and easy, making it a fantastic side dish for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. The caramelized glaze adds a special touch, ensuring these Brussels sprouts will be a hit at your table.

How to Make Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Ready to dive into this scrumptious recipe? Here’s how you can prepare Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts step-by-step.

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tsp orange zest
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help crisp up the Brussels sprouts while ensuring they are perfectly tender on the inside.
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each sprout is well coated for even roasting.
Spread the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet. This helps them develop a beautiful brown color as they roast.
Roast in the oven for 10 minutes, then stir to promote even cooking. Roast for an additional 10 minutes until the Brussels sprouts are browned and tender.
While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, and minced garlic until smooth.
Remove the sprouts from the oven and drizzle the glaze over them. Toss to ensure they are evenly coated in the sweet, tangy mixture.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
Serve warm and enjoy! If you have leftovers, they can easily be reheated in a hot skillet or oven and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Pro Tips for Success Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm and vibrant Brussels sprouts with tightly closed leaves. Avoid those that appear yellowing or have brown spots.
Cut Evenly: Halving the sprouts will help them cook evenly, allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your baking sheet is too full, the Brussels sprouts may steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on personal preference, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup in the glaze to suit your taste.
Add Some Crunch: For a bit of texture, consider topping your glazed Brussels sprouts with toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, before serving.
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can provide an extra layer of flavor. Add them to the glaze or sprinkle on top before serving.

Flavor Variations Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a sweet and spicy combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Balsamic Twist: Substitute balsamic vinegar for the soy sauce for a more tangy flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
Citrus Medley: Mix different citrus juices such as grapefruit or lemon in with your orange juice for a zesty update to the glaze.
Honey Instead of Maple: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different type of sweetness. This can create a unique variation that might be just what you’re looking for.

Serving Suggestions Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These delightful Brussels sprouts pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, beef, or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. They can also be a fantastic side to a cozy winter dish like creamy risotto or alongside grain bowls filled with quinoa. For a complete holiday spread, these sweet and savory Brussels sprouts can beautifully accompany glazed ham or a savory stuffing.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

To store your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can stay refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a skillet over medium heat for the best results. For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted Brussels sprouts. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2–3 months for optimal flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|———-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 130mg |

FAQ About Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! However, note that frozen sprouts may have a bit more moisture, which could affect crispness. Be sure to pat them dry before seasoning. You might also need to adjust roasting time since they are precooked.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey is a great alternative that will maintain the sweetness. Agave nectar is another option that will work nicely, although it has a different flavor profile than maple syrup.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To keep this recipe vegan, ensure you use maple syrup as the sweetener and opt for a soy sauce that is marked as gluten-free if needed. Both maple syrup and soy sauce are plant-based, making this dish suitable for vegan diets.

How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done?

When roasting Brussels sprouts, look for a nice golden-brown color on the cut sides and tenderness when pierced with a fork. They should have a creamy texture inside while being crisp on the outside.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheating leftovers can be easily done in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven. To ensure they don’t dry out, adding a tablespoon of water or broth when reheating can help steam them back to tenderness.

Final Thoughts

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts prove that this often-overlooked vegetable deserves a spot on your table. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for every occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Transform your meal with this simple yet tasty side that everyone will love!