How to Cook Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Like Jamie Oliver

Brussels sprouts are one of those divisive vegetables that people either love or hate. But with the right recipes, even brussels sprout skeptics can be convinced of their deliciousness. That’s where celebrity chef Jamie Oliver comes in. He has an incredible recipe for brussels sprouts with bacon that is sure to convert any brussels sprout naysayer.

For those unfamiliar Jamie Oliver is a world-renowned British chef and restauranteur. He has published numerous cookbooks hosted various TV shows, and founded the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation to educate people about food and cooking. Jamie is best known for his simple, fresh, and flavorful recipes that anyone can make at home.

When it comes to brussels sprouts, Jamie understands they have a bad reputation. But he created a recipe that highlights just how tasty brussels sprouts can be when cooked properly. Let’s look at how to recreate Jamie Oliver’s brilliant brussels sprouts with bacon.

Overview of Jamie’s Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Dish

Jamie’s recipe transforms the humble brussels sprout into a delicious Christmas side dish It has a festive flair from the addition of roasted chestnuts and smoked bacon. The sprouts are pan-fried until tender with caramelized onions, sage, butter, and seasoning.

Despite sounding fancy the ingredient list is simple. You likely have most of the components already in your kitchen. And the method itself takes less than an hour from start to finish. The end result is a basket of hot crunchy, salty, herby and perfectly cooked sprouts.

How to Cook Brussels Sprouts Like Jamie Oliver

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step method for recreating Jamie’s brussels sprouts at home:

Ingredients

• 1 kg brussels sprouts
• 2 onions
• 15g fresh sage
• 6 rashers smoked streaky bacon
• Olive oil
• 200g roasted, peeled chestnuts
• 2 large knobs of unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper

Step 1 – Prepare the Onions, Sage, and Bacon

First, peel and dice the onions. Pick the sage leaves from the stems and chop finely. Place a hot pan on the stove over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the bacon slices and fry until lightly golden, then add the chestnuts. Continue frying until the chestnuts are deep golden brown.

Step 2 – Cook the Onion and Sage

Next, add the diced onions and chopped sage to the pan. Turn down the heat to low and cook slowly for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the onions to caramelize and become sweet and jammy.

Step 3 – Cook the Brussels Sprouts

While the onions are cooking, prepare the brussels sprouts. Trim off any dried or tatty outer leaves and cut larger sprouts in half through the core. Add the sprouts to a saucepan and cover with boiling salted water. Cook for 5 minutes until just tender but still retaining a bite. Drain and set aside.

Step 4 – Combine the Ingredients

Now add the cooked sprouts into the pan with the bacon, onions, chestnuts and sage. Toss everything together, allowing the sprouts to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 5 – Finish with Butter

Finally, turn off the heat and stir through the knobs of butter so they melt through the sprouts. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy your sprouts straight away for maximum taste and texture.

And that’s it! With Jamie’s simple method, you can turn brussels sprouts from boring to beautiful in less than an hour.

Cooking Tips for Brussels Sprouts & Bacon

Here are some extra tips to ensure your brussels sprouts side comes out perfectly:

• Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tight leaves. Yellowing sprouts will be bitter.
• Cut the sprouts evenly for even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the sprouts – you want them tender but still crunchy.
• Fry the bacon until crispy so it gives lovely texture.
• Caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Flavor boost: add garlic, lemon zest or chili flakes.
• For extra richness, use pancetta instead of bacon.
• Make ahead: sprouts keep for 3 days refrigerated. Reheat before serving.

Benefits of Jamie Oliver’s Brussels Sprouts Recipe

There are many benefits to cooking brussels sprouts Jamie Oliver style:

• Simple method – easy enough for beginners and busy weeknights.
• Big flavor – the mix of bacon, onions, herbs takes sprouts up a notch.
• Vegetarian adaptable – leave out the bacon for a veggie version.
• Make-ahead friendly – sprouts taste great reheated.
• Nutritious – sprouts are low calorie, high fiber and packed with vitamins.
• Crowd-pleaser – even sprout skeptics will love this recipe!

So next time you’re looking for a delicious, easy vegetable side for a roast dinner or holiday spread, give Jamie Oliver’s brilliant brussels sprouts a try. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone going back for seconds!