Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce

Indulge in Decadence with Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce

Experience a symphony of flavors with our Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce recipe. This indulgent dish combines the earthiness of Brussels sprouts, the richness of cream, the smokiness of bacon, and the depth of sherry for a culinary masterpiece that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re looking for a sumptuous side dish to accompany your main course or a luxurious appetizer to impress your guests, Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce is sure to delight your palate and leave you craving more. Join us as we explore the art of creating this divine dish and discover the magic of combining simple ingredients to create extraordinary flavors.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 4 slices Bacon

Produce

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts
  • 7 Cremini mushrooms
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • 1 Shallot

Baking & Spices

  • 1 tbsp Salt
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream

Beer, Wine & Liquor

  • 1/4 cup Cream sherry

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that are damaged or wilted. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise.
  2. Clean the Cremini mushrooms and slice them thinly.
  3. Mince the garlic clove and finely chop the shallot.
  4. Cut the bacon slices into small pieces.

Cooking the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Add the bacon pieces to the skillet and cook until crispy.
  3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
  4. In the same skillet, add the Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, garlic, and shallot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, and the mushrooms are golden brown.

Making the Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce

  1. Deglaze the skillet with cream sherry, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  3. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Combining the Ingredients

  1. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss it with the Brussels sprouts and mushrooms until evenly distributed.
  2. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Serving

  1. Transfer the Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce to a serving dish.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy the decadent flavors!

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of butter or olive oil for cooking the vegetables. Substitute vegetable broth or white wine for the cream sherry for added depth of flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.
  • Vegan Variation: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegan bacon or smoked tofu for a meatless version of this dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce

  • This dish is already keto-friendly with its combination of Brussels sprouts, bacon, and cream. Adjust the portion sizes to fit your macros accordingly.

Low-Carb Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce

  • Follow the keto version adjustments, focusing on minimizing the carb content while still enjoying the rich flavors of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of mushrooms in this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties of mushrooms such as button mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, or shiitake mushrooms for unique flavor profiles.

Q: Can I make Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce ahead of time?

A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.

Q: Can I use other types of alcohol instead of cream sherry?

A: Yes, you can substitute dry white wine, marsala wine, or even brandy for the cream sherry in this recipe, adjusting the quantity to suit your taste preference.

Elevate your dining experience with Brussels Sprouts in a Sherry Bacon Cream Sauce, a luxurious dish that combines the richness of cream, the smokiness of bacon, and the earthiness of Brussels sprouts for a taste sensation like no other. Whether enjoyed as a decadent side dish or a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates with its bold flavors and elegant presentation. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and treat yourself to a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving seconds!