Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce

Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Belgium

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. In this recipe, we will be making Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce, a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Brussels sprouts have been enjoyed for centuries, with records of them being cultivated in Belgium as far back as the 13th century. The addition of pecans to this dish adds a unique twist and a delicious crunch.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh brussels sprouts, trimmed
3 tbsp butter
0.25 cup pecans, chopped
Â0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Cook the sprouts by placing them in boiling salted water until they become tender.
Drain the sprouts and keep them warm.
In a small saucepan, heat the butter and brown the pecans.
Pour the pecans over the sprouts and serve immediately.

Variations

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the pecan sauce for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts before serving for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to trim the Brussels sprouts before cooking to remove any tough outer leaves.

- Boiling the sprouts in salted water helps to enhance their flavor.

- Browning the pecans in butter adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the Brussels sprouts helps to soften them and bring out their natural sweetness. Browning the pecans in butter adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pecans on hand, you can substitute walnuts or almonds in this recipe. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and pecan sauce ahead of time and reheat them before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain minerals such as potassium and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and dairy (butter), so be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and delicious side dish.

Summary

Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and nutty flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1960s, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for our weekly cooking exchange. Martha was known for her inventive and delicious recipes, and this particular dish caught my eye as soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen.

As Martha bustled about, preparing the ingredients for our meal, I couldn't help but ask her about the Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce recipe that she had written on a tattered piece of paper. She smiled knowingly and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged.

Martha began to recount the story of how she had learned to make Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce from her grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother. It was a treasured family recipe that had been enjoyed at countless gatherings and celebrations over the years. Martha's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she spoke, and I could sense the deep love and connection she felt to her family through this dish.

As Martha explained the steps to me, I listened intently, soaking in every detail. The recipe was surprisingly simple, yet the combination of flavors and textures was truly divine. The Brussels sprouts were roasted to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by the rich and creamy pecan sauce. It was a dish that was both comforting and elegant, a true reflection of Martha's culinary skills and heritage.

After our meal was prepared and we sat down to enjoy it together, I took my first bite of the Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce. The flavors danced on my tongue, a symphony of nutty, earthy, and savory notes that melded together in perfect harmony. I couldn't help but exclaim in delight, and Martha beamed with pride at my reaction.

From that day on, Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for my family, friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to taste it. It quickly became a beloved dish in my household, just as it had in Martha's.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own touches and variations to make it uniquely mine. I experimented with different herbs and spices, swapped out ingredients, and even tried different cooking methods to see how they would affect the final dish.

Through it all, the essence of the recipe remained the same: a celebration of tradition, family, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Each time I made Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce, I felt a connection to Martha, to her grandmother, and to all the generations of women who had lovingly prepared this dish before me.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, preparing Brussels Sprouts in Pecan Sauce for yet another gathering of family and friends, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. This recipe is more than just a dish – it is a testament to the power of food to nourish not only our bodies, but also our souls.

And so, as I take the Brussels sprouts out of the oven, drizzle them with the luscious pecan sauce, and garnish them with a sprinkling of toasted pecans, I say a silent thank you to Martha, to her grandmother, and to all the women who came before me. Their legacy lives on in every bite of this delicious dish, and I am honored to carry it forward for future generations to enjoy.