Best Alton Browns Brussels Sprouts With Pecans And Cranberries Recipes

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ALTON BROWN'S BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH PECANS AND CRANBERRIES



Alton Brown's Brussels Sprouts With Pecans and Cranberries image

Make and share this Alton Brown's Brussels Sprouts With Pecans and Cranberries recipe from Food.com.

Provided by Magic Mushroom

Categories     Vegetable

Time 20m

Yield 1 lb sprouts, 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 lb fresh Brussels sprout, rinsed and trimmed
3 ounces coarsely chopped pecans
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
4 ounces coarsely chopped dried cranberries

Steps:

  • Slice the Brussels sprouts using the thinnest slicing disk of a food processor. If you do not have a food processor, you may slice thinly with a knife or a mandoline.
  • Set a 10-inch straight-sided saute pan over medium-high heat and add the pecans. Cook, stirring continually, until the pecans darken in color and begin to give off a toasted aroma, approximately 2 minutes.
  • Add the butter to the pan and stir to combine. Once the butter has melted, add the Brussels sprouts, salt and pepper and cook, stirring continually, until the color brightens and the sprouts are just tender, approximately 6 minutes.
  • Remove the pan from the heat, add the cranberries, toss and serve.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH PECANS AND CRANBERRIES



Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries image

Provided by Alton Brown

Categories     side-dish

Time 25m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, rinsed and trimmed
3 ounces coarsely chopped pecans
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 ounces coarsely chopped dried cranberries

Steps:

  • Slice the Brussels sprouts using the thinnest slicing disk of a food processor. If you do not have a food processor, you may slice thinly with a knife or a mandoline.
  • Set a 10-inch straight-sided saute pan over medium-high heat and add the pecans. Cook, stirring continually, until the pecans darken in color and begin to give off a toasted aroma, approximately 2 minutes. Add the butter to the pan and stir to combine. Once the butter has melted, add the Brussels sprouts, salt and pepper and cook, stirring continually, until the color brightens and the sprouts are just tender, approximately 6 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat, add the cranberries, toss and serve.

Alton Brown's Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries recipe is a dish that is sure to impress any guest at a holiday meal. It is a unique twist on the traditional Brussels sprouts dish, blending savory and sweet flavors together for a delicious and satisfying meal.

The Ingredients

The recipe calls for fresh Brussels sprouts, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, red pepper flakes, chicken or vegetable broth, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cider vinegar. All of these ingredients come together to create a rich and complex flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Brussels Sprouts
The star ingredient of this dish is, of course, the Brussels sprouts. They are a cruciferous vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals, and are a great source of fiber. Brussels sprouts are also versatile and can be prepared in many different ways.
Pecans
The chopped pecans in this recipe add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish. Pecans are high in healthy fats and antioxidants, making them a great addition to any meal.
Cranberries
The dried cranberries lend a sweet and tart taste to this dish, complementing the savory Brussels sprouts and pecans perfectly. Cranberries are also high in antioxidants and have many health benefits, including aiding in digestion and preventing urinary tract infections.
Red Pepper Flakes
The red pepper flakes add a touch of spice to the dish, balancing out the sweetness of the maple syrup and cranberries. They also have many health benefits, including reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism.
Broth
The chicken or vegetable broth serves as the base of the dish, adding depth and richness to the flavor. Broth is also a great source of electrolytes and other important nutrients.
Maple Syrup
The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness to the dish, bringing out the flavors of the cranberries and pecans. Maple syrup is also a healthier alternative to traditional sugar, containing important minerals like zinc and manganese.
Dijon Mustard
The Dijon mustard in this recipe adds a tangy and savory flavor, elevating the dish to the next level. Mustard is also a natural preservative and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Cider Vinegar
The cider vinegar serves as a balancing agent in the dish, cutting through the sweetness of the maple syrup and cranberries. It also has many health benefits, including aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system.

The Method

To make Alton Brown's Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries recipe, first trim the ends off of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Then toast the pecans in a dry skillet until they are fragrant and set them aside. In the same skillet, cook the Brussels sprouts in oil until they are tender and caramelized. Add red pepper flakes and dried cranberries and cook for another minute. Next, add the chicken or vegetable broth, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cider vinegar to the skillet and simmer until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly. Finally, stir in the toasted pecans and serve hot.

The Final Dish

The final dish is a beautiful blend of savory and sweet flavors, with the Brussels sprouts offering a slightly bitter undertone that is balanced by the sweetness of the cranberries and maple syrup. The pecans add a crunchy texture, while the red pepper flakes and Dijon mustard provide a subtle kick of spice. Overall, Alton Brown's Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries recipe is a unique and delicious take on a classic holiday dish. It is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress even the toughest of critics.

Alton Brown's Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries Recipe

Brussels sprouts are a fantastic side dish, especially when combined with unique flavors like pecans and cranberries. Perhaps one of the most well-known and widely appreciated Brussels sprouts recipes is that of Alton Brown, a renowned chef and Food Network star. Alton Brown’s Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries recipe combines tangy cranberries, toasted pecans, and crispy sprouts that create a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This guide provides some valuable tips that can help you make this delicious recipe.

Tip 1: Choosing the Right Brussels Sprouts

The quality of your Brussels sprouts is the foundation of the perfect recipe outcome. Take the time to choose firm, green, and fresh-looking sprouts. The biggest sprouts are not ideal for this recipe; medium-sized sprouts are usually best for roasting.

Tip 2: Clean and Trim the Brussels Sprouts

Before you start roasting the Brussels sprouts, ensure that they are clean and trimmed correctly. Trim the edges of the sprouts' stems and remove any discolored or yellowed leaves. You can also wash the sprouts, but remember to dry them thoroughly with a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth. Excess moisture can cause your sprouts to turn mushy instead of crispy.

Tip 3: Time and Temperature

The key to achieving the perfect Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries recipe is an accurate timing and temperature. Preheat your oven to 400°F, and make sure it is hot enough before roasting. Also, ensure that the sprouts are cut into even sizes, about ½-inch pieces, for even roasting. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure evenness.

Tip 4: Toasting the Pecans

Toasting your pecans is a simple but crucial step in this recipe. Toasted pecans improve the flavor and give the dish a delightful crunchiness. Spread your pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes until they become fragrant and are slightly browned. Be careful at this stage not to burn them.

Tip 5: Fresh Cranberries

Cranberries add a delightful tangy flavor to the Brussels sprouts. If you have ever used dried cranberries, you know that they tend to be sweeter than fresh cranberries. Use fresh cranberries for this recipe to get the accurate tartness that balances the pecans and Brussels sprouts' flavors.

Tip 6: Seasoning the Brussels Sprouts and Pecans

Seasoning is critical in determining the quality and taste of your Brussels sprouts. The recipe calls for sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to season both the Brussels sprouts and pecans evenly. Seasoning should be done lightly and evenly to avoid over salting.

Tip 7: Adding a Sweet Element

The Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries recipe is a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Adding a sweet element to the recipe can enhance the dish's overall flavor. Brown sugar and honey are perfect sweeteners, and you can add a little bit to your recipe or just a sprinkle of sweetener on top of the finished dish is enough.

Tip 8: Garnishing

Garnishing is an essential step that brings the recipe together in a visually pleasing way. A sprinkle of chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or crispy bacon bits can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish. Be creative and select a garnish that complements the flavors and aesthetics of your Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries dish.

Conclusion

Alton Brown’s Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries recipe is a delicious side dish that complements many meals due to its combination of sweet and savory flavors. The tips we've compiled here can help you make the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries. From selecting the right Brussels sprouts, toasting your pecans, to garnishing the finished dish, every step is critical in ensuring the recipe's overall taste and quality. Experiment with these tips and create a perfect side dish that will delight your family and friends.

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