As a veteran vegetable-forward chef, I’ve mastered how to turn humble Brussels sprouts into a crave-worthy side. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and nutty depth, then a warm maple glaze adds another layer of flavor. Topped with crispy shallots, this simple yet elegant dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands alone as a festive vegetarian side.
Ingredients
1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For Crispy Shallots:
2 large shallots, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare & Roast Sprouts
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
Roast 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway, until browned and tender.
Make the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon, and vinegar.
When sprouts come out of the oven, transfer to a large bowl, pour glaze over, and toss gently to coat.
Crisp the Shallots
While sprouts roast, heat oil in a small skillet over medium.
Add shallots in a single layer and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until golden-brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with a pinch of salt.
Combine & Serve
Transfer glazed sprouts to a serving platter.
Sprinkle crispy shallots on top just before serving to retain crunch.
Expert Tips
Even Browning: Shake the pan halfway through roasting to prevent steaming.
Shallot Safety: Lower heat if shallots brown too quickly—they burn in an instant.
Flavor Boost: Stir in 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme into the glaze for herbal notes.
Why It Works
Sweet–Savory Contrast: Maple glaze balances Brussels sprouts’ savory char.
Textural Contrast: Crispy shallots add crunch to tender sprouts.
Make-Ahead Option: Roast sprouts and crisp shallots up to 1 day ahead; reheat sprouts briefly, then glaze and top.
Conclusion
These maple-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy shallots transform a simple vegetable into a standout side. With clear steps, credible chef tips, and balanced flavors