Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts Recipe

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 12 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning
• 12 slices bacon, cut in half widthwise

Directions:

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients needed for the recipe.

Step 2: Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C).

Step 3: Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl and sprinkle them with the Montreal steak seasoning. Toss the Brussels sprouts well to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout half. Place the wrapped sprouts seam-side-down in the air fryer basket. Repeat with the remaining bacon and Brussels sprouts.

Step 5: Cook the Brussels sprouts for 10 minutes, without disturbing them, until they are crispy and the bacon is fully cooked.

Step 6: Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a plate and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 203
• Fat: 13g (17% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (21% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 34mg (11% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 837mg (36% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 6g (2% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 17g (34% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 34mg (38% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 54mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 397mg (8% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. If you're following a medically restrictive diet, it's recommended to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are a quick and easy side dish that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the crispy indulgence of bacon. This recipe is a popular choice for anyone looking for a delicious yet simple way to elevate Brussels sprouts, making them a hit even among those who typically shy away from this vegetable. Whether you're preparing for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, these bacon-wrapped sprouts are sure to impress.

History of Origin

The origins of Brussels sprouts date back to the 5th century in the Mediterranean region, but they are most commonly associated with Brussels, Belgium, where they were cultivated extensively in the 16th century. However, the combination of Brussels sprouts and bacon has American roots, likely originating in the early 20th century when the trend of wrapping vegetables in bacon became popular in North American cooking. The air fryer, a modern kitchen appliance, has only recently become a favorite tool for preparing these types of dishes, as it allows for crisping bacon and vegetables with minimal oil, making them a healthier option for many people.

Regional Variations

While Brussels sprouts are popular worldwide, regional variations in their preparation exist. In Belgium, where Brussels sprouts originate, they are often boiled or steamed, and sometimes paired with mustard or bacon in hearty stews. In North America, the trend of pairing Brussels sprouts with bacon became popular due to the growing interest in both foods. The concept of wrapping Brussels sprouts in bacon and air-frying them is a modern twist, offering a crispy and savory flavor that resonates with American preferences for both convenience and flavor. Variations on this recipe might include different spices or seasonings, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

This dish stands out from other Brussels sprout recipes due to the unique combination of bacon and air frying. In comparison to traditional Brussels sprout dishes that involve roasting or sauting, the bacon-wrapped sprouts take on a more indulgent and crispy texture thanks to the air fryer. Other similar dishes may simply roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil or butter, but the bacon adds a savory richness that elevates the dish. Additionally, the air fryer allows the bacon to crisp up quickly without the need for excessive oil, making it a lighter alternative to deep-frying or pan-frying bacon-wrapped vegetables.

Where It Is Typically Served

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are often served as an appetizer or side dish at casual dinner parties, holiday meals, or barbecues. They are also a popular choice for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner spread, where they offer a modern twist on traditional vegetable side dishes. Due to their savory, crispy nature, they are especially favored by those who enjoy the combination of salty and crispy foods. In some regions, they might be served in trendy gastropubs or restaurants that specialize in reinventing classic comfort foods.

Interesting Facts

• Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
• Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, which includes broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
• The air fryer was invented in the early 2000s, and has since revolutionized home cooking by allowing users to cook with little to no oil, achieving crispy textures without the need for deep-frying.
• The trend of bacon-wrapped vegetables grew significantly in the 2000s, largely due to the popularity of bacon in American food culture and the rise of food blogs sharing creative recipes.

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