Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy notes of orange and maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. The contrast of sweet cranberries adds a wonderful texture, making it an appealing side dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The blend of maple syrup, orange juice, and garlic creates a rich glaze that enhances the natural taste of Brussels sprouts.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any hassle.
• Health-Conscious: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this recipe fits nicely into any healthy eating plan.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, this dish complements various main courses beautifully.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the glazed sprouts and cranberries make for an appealing centerpiece on your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for roasting the Brussels sprouts to perfection.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for tossing the ingredients together before cooking.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the orange maple glaze without burning or overcooking it.

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts

• Brussels Sprouts: 1½ pounds, trimmed and halved
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, for roasting
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning

For the Orange Maple Glaze

• Maple Syrup: 3 tablespoons, for natural sweetness
• Orange Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, for brightness
• Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon, for a concentrated citrus flavor
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon, for tangy balance
• Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted, for richness
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced, for a savory kick

For the Garnish

• Dried Cranberries: ½ cup, for a tart and chewy contrast
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: ¼ cup, chopped (optional), for crunch

How to Make Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down.
4. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Make the Orange Maple Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic.
2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine and Garnish

1. Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving dish.
2. Drizzle the orange maple glaze over the sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and toasted nuts (if using).
4. Serve warm as an enticing side dish that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Serving Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries can elevate your meal and impress your guests. These vibrant sprouts not only offer a burst of flavor but also a beautiful presentation.

As a Standalone Dish

• Ideal for vegetarian or side dish options, these Brussels sprouts shine on their own, showcasing the sweet and tangy glaze.

Paired with Roasted Chicken

• The savory flavors of roasted chicken complement the sweetness of the orange maple glaze perfectly, creating a balanced plate.

With Quinoa Salad

• Serving these Brussels sprouts alongside a refreshing quinoa salad adds texture and enhances the overall nutritional profile of your meal.

Accompanied by Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy sprouts, making for a hearty side dish combination.

How to Perfect Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

To make sure your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select bright green, firm Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that are wilted or yellowing.

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before roasting. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desired crispiness.

• Use Quality Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup rather than imitation syrup for a richer taste in your glaze.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your personal preference for a well-seasoned dish.

• Toss Well: When combining the glaze with the roasted sprouts, toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Pairing side dishes with Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that offers creamy texture without the heaviness.

2. Crispy Roast Potatoes: Seasoned and roasted until golden brown, these potatoes add a crunchy element that complements the softness of the sprouts.

3. Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs brings brightness that pairs well with the glaze’s sweetness.

4. Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans add vibrant color and a fresh crunch to balance out the rich flavors of the glazed Brussels sprouts.

5. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Filled with grains, nuts, or veggies, stuffed acorn squash offers an impressive presentation alongside your main dish.

6. Carrot Ginger Soup: A warm soup that provides a smooth and spicy contrast to the sweet and tangy Brussels sprouts on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch for:

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: When roasting Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are in a single layer allows for even cooking and crispiness. Avoid overcrowding by using multiple sheets if necessary.

• Not preheating the oven: Preheating your oven ensures that the Brussels sprouts roast properly from the moment they go in. Always allow your oven to reach the desired temperature before adding your dish.

• Under-seasoning: Failing to season your Brussels sprouts adequately can lead to bland results. Season generously with salt and pepper before roasting to enhance their natural flavors.

• Skipping the glaze: The orange maple glaze is crucial for flavor balance. Don’t skip this step; instead, drizzle it generously over the roasted sprouts for a burst of sweetness and tartness.

• Ignoring freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can diminish the dish’s flavor. Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts and quality maple syrup for the best taste.

• Overcooking the sprouts: Over-roasting can turn Brussels sprouts mushy instead of crispy. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once they’re golden brown and tender but not overdone.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; they will keep for about 2–3 months.

Reheating Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries special?

The combination of sweet maple syrup, tangy orange juice, and tart cranberries creates a unique flavor profile that elevates traditional Brussels sprouts into a delicious side dish.

Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute pecans or walnuts with other nuts like almonds or pistachios based on your preference.

How can I customize my Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?

Feel free to add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth, or incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for more variety.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Brussels sprouts store well in the fridge and make an excellent addition to meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor that complements any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful side dish!