Brussels sprouts with ham and bacon

Brussels Sprouts with Ham and Bacon

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm, flavorful dish, infused with delicious ingredients? Today's recipe, Brussels Sprouts with Ham and Bacon, is a true feast for vegetable lovers, but also for those seeking a hearty and flavorful meal. This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the savory richness of ham and bacon, resulting in a dish that will impress even the most discerning gourmets.

The history of Brussels sprouts is fascinating. This vegetable has been cultivated in Europe for centuries and has gained popularity due to its distinctive taste and versatility in dishes. Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable, rich in nutrients and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. With low calorie content and a wealth of vitamins, Brussels sprouts contribute to a balanced lifestyle.

Ingredients needed:

- 1 kg Brussels sprouts
- 1 medium onion
- 1 leek
- 250 g lean ham, diced
- 200 g bacon, sliced
- 100 g Emmental or Parmesan cheese, grated
- 25 g butter
- Breadcrumbs for greasing the cooking dish
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried basil, for flavor
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step by step:

1. Preparing the Brussels sprouts:
- Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Remove the outer, drier leaves and trim the stem with a sharp knife. This will help the sprouts cook evenly.
- Wash each piece well under cold running water, ensuring they are clean.
- Boil water in a large pot, adding a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor. When the water is boiling, add the Brussels sprouts and let them cook for about 10 minutes. This will soften the sprouts while keeping a bit of their natural crunch.

2. Draining the sprouts:
- After the sprouts have boiled, remove them from the water using a slotted spoon and place them in a colander to drain well. It is important that the sprouts do not remain watery, as this would dilute the flavors of the final dish.

3. Preparing the aromatic ingredients:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and the sliced leek. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they become translucent and fragrant. These will add a sweet flavor and an aromatic base to the dish.
- Add the ham and bacon to the skillet, stirring gently. Allow them to fry for 5-6 minutes, until the bacon becomes crispy and releases its delicious oil.

4. Assembling the dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a ceramic or glass dish with butter and breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. This will create a crispy crust, adding texture to the dish.
- Spread a layer of Brussels sprouts in the dish, followed by the ham and bacon mixture. Sprinkle dried basil, oregano, and fresh parsley for added flavor.
- Then, add another layer of sprouts and a teaspoon of butter on top. This will provide a rich flavor and creamy texture.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, along with some bacon strips for an appetizing appearance.

5. Baking:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crispy, and the dish is well cooked. You will feel the aromas intertwining, tempting you to savor the dish.

6. Serving:
- You can serve Brussels Sprouts with Ham and Bacon on their own or as a side dish for meats, fish, or even eggs. If desired, add a béchamel sauce on top for an extra creamy touch.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can drizzle the dish with a bit of lemon juice before serving. This will balance the richness of the bacon and cheese.
- For a vegetarian dish, replace the ham and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and toasted nuts for a crunchy texture.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to achieve different flavors.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
- Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but make sure they are well thawed and drained before adding them to the recipe.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
- Leftovers can be turned into a delicious omelet or added to soups to enrich their flavor.

3. What is the best way to store Brussels sprouts?
- Fresh Brussels sprouts are best stored in the refrigerator, in a perforated plastic bag, for 3-5 days.

The Brussels Sprouts with Ham and Bacon recipe is an excellent choice for a festive meal or an everyday dinner. With its enticing flavors and crunchy texture, it will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by the rich and comforting tastes!

 Ingredients: 1 kg Brussels sprouts, 1 medium onion, a leek, 250 g diced lean ham, 200 g sliced bacon, 100 g Emmental or Parmesan cheese, 25 g butter, breadcrumbs for greasing the cooking dish, salt, pepper, basil, fresh parsley.