Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts

These Brussels sprouts transform from bitter to irresistible when cooked in rendered bacon fat until crispy, then finished with a sweet-spicy glaze. The combination of caramelized edges, smoky bacon, and the honey-sriracha finish creates a side dish that’s both sophisticated and addictive.

The Recipe

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces lardons or thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
• Tongs or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Method

1. Render the bacon: Cook lardons or bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until fat is rendered and bacon is crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

2. Cook the sprouts: Add Brussels sprouts, cut side down, to the hot fat. Season with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until cut sides are deeply browned.

3. Add aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic, tossing to coat in the fat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until sprouts are tender and onions are caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

4. Finish the dish: Return bacon to the pan. Drizzle with honey and sriracha, tossing to coat everything in the glaze. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the glaze is bubbling and slightly thickened.

Serving Notes

Serve immediately while hot. The sprouts should have crispy edges, tender centers, and a glossy sweet-spicy coating.

Recipe Notes

• For best results, use sprouts of similar size
• The cut sides of the sprouts should be deeply browned before adding aromatics
• Adjust sriracha amount based on your heat preference
• Leftovers reheat well in a skillet over medium heat

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace bacon with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Maple Version: Substitute maple syrup for honey Asian-Inspired: Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil with the honey-sriracha Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan before serving