If you’re looking for a tasty side dish, these Brussels sprouts are it! They’re cooked in rich brown butter, giving them a nutty flavor, and topped with crunchy almonds.
Honestly, who knew Brussels sprouts could be this good? I love how simple it is to make them special. Just a little butter and nuts turn veggies into pure joy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this recipe. If you can’t find them, try using frozen ones—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Butter: I recommend unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil can also work well but will give a different flavor profile.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch, but you could substitute with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture. If you want a nut-free option, sunflower seeds can work too!
Lemon Juice or Balsamic Vinegar: These are optional, but they add brightness. You can use apple cider vinegar or even a dash of red wine vinegar if you like. Fresh lemon always adds a nice zing!
How Can I Ensure My Butter Doesn’t Burn?
The key to perfect brown butter is to keep a close eye on the heat. Here’s how to avoid burning:
- Start with medium heat, and make sure to stir or swirl the butter often. This helps the heat distribute evenly.
- When it starts bubbling, keep paying attention—it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- You know it’s ready when it turns a golden brown color and you smell that lovely nutty aroma. Remove it from heat immediately once it reaches this stage!
By mastering this technique, you’ll add a delicious depth of flavor to your Brussels sprouts without any burnt bits.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for a touch of brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 25 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a delicious side dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim off the stem ends and then slice each sprout in half through the stem. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Creating the Brown Butter:
In a large skillet, add the unsalted butter and set it over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and start cooking, swirling the pan occasionally. Keep an eye on it and let it cook until it turns a lovely golden brown and starts to smell nutty, which will take about 3-5 minutes. Remember, it can burn quickly, so don’t wander off!
3. Cooking the Brussels Sprouts:
Once the butter is browned, add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Let them cook without stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing the cut sides to brown nicely. This caramelization adds a wonderful flavor!
4. Finishing Up the Sprouts:
After 5 minutes, stir or toss the Brussels sprouts to combine with the butter. Cook them for another 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Toasting the Almonds:
In the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, add the sliced almonds to the skillet. Toss them around so they can toast lightly in the brown butter along with the Brussels sprouts.
6. Adding Brightness:
If you like, finish off your dish with a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. This adds a delightful brightness that complements the rich flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the beautifully cooked Brussels sprouts with almonds to a serving dish and enjoy them warm. They make a fantastic side dish for any meal!
Enjoy these richly flavored, buttery, and crunchy Brussels sprouts! They’re sure to be a hit at your dining table!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help achieve the same caramelized texture as fresh ones.
How Do I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Substitute the Almonds for Another Nut or Seed?
Absolutely! You can use chopped walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to toast them lightly like the almonds for the best taste!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil to make this dish vegan-friendly. The rich flavors will still shine through!
