Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts in Bangor Maine

As the chill of March lingers in Bangor, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty dish to bring comfort to the table.

 

One such local favorite is the maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that embodies the essence of Maine cuisine.

 

To craft this dish, you'll need:

 

1.5 lbs of Brussels sprouts, halved;

 

4-6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced;

 

3 tablespoons of pure Maine maple syrup;

 

2 tablespoons of olive oil;

 

1/2 teaspoon of salt;

 

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper;

 

and, if desired, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F.

 

On a large, rimmed baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts and diced bacon with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even coating.

 

Spread them out in a single layer, placing the sprouts cut-side down to achieve maximum crispiness.

 

Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and the bacon reaches a crisp perfection.

 

Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven and drizzle the hot sprouts and bacon with the pure Maine maple syrup, tossing well to coat.

 

If you're adding nuts, incorporate them at this stage.

 

Return the pan to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the syrup to caramelize into a sticky, flavorful glaze.

 

Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.

 

For those looking to source the freshest ingredients, the Bangor Winter Farmers' Market is an excellent destination.

 

Held on the first and third Sundays of each month from December through April, the market operates from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Sea Dog Brewing Co. Banquet Room, located at 26 Front Street.

 

Here, you can find locally grown Brussels sprouts, artisanal bacon, and, of course, authentic Maine maple syrup.