Thanksgiving Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Crispy, caramelized, and rich with a hint of maple sweetness, these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the ultimate Thanksgiving side. Cooked on the Arteflame grill, the sprouts develop a smoky char while soaking in the flavors of maple and bacon for a side dish that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 4 strips of thick-cut bacon, diced
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Arteflame Grill
   Get your Arteflame grill ready by lighting three vegetable oil-soaked paper napkins with firewood stacked over them. Light it up and allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

2. Cook the Bacon

   • Place the diced bacon on the medium-hot area of the flat cooktop, allowing it to render and become crispy. Stir occasionally until browned, about 5 minutes.
   • Remove the bacon from the cooktop, leaving the drippings behind.

3. Grill the Brussels Sprouts

   • In the bacon drippings, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the same section of the cooktop.
   • Drizzle with melted butter, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.

4. Add Maple Syrup and Bacon

   • Once the Brussels sprouts are charred, drizzle them with maple syrup and mix in the crispy bacon.
   • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the syrup to caramelize and coat the Brussels sprouts and bacon.

5. Serve

   • Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.

Tips

• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts hold up well on the grill and develop a great texture.
• Keep an Eye on the Heat: The Arteflame’s heat zones allow you to move the Brussels sprouts around to avoid burning while they cook evenly.
• Serve Immediately: These sprouts are best served right off the grill for a perfect blend of crispness and caramelized maple flavor.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add extra crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat contrast to the maple sweetness.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese over the top before serving.

Best pairings

Pair these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with other grilled Thanksgiving sides, like sweet potatoes, cornbread, or charred green beans. They’re also great alongside turkey or ham.

Conclusion

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts bring a perfect blend of smokiness, sweetness, and crunch to any meal. Easy to prepare on the grill, they make a fantastic side for Thanksgiving and beyond. Enjoy!