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Spicy Kimchi Brings Brussels Sprouts to Life

When it comes to elevating a dish, sometimes all it takes is a dash of creativity and a pinch of spice. That’s exactly what happens when you pair roasted Brussels sprouts with a tangy, spicy kimchi sauce.

The Perfect Combination

Chef David Chang’s recipe brings together the bold flavors of kimchi, smoky bacon, and sweet carrots to create a satisfying dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. And the best part? You can make your own kimchi from scratch or use store-bought to simplify the process.

Getting Started

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and preparing your ingredients. You’ll need Napa cabbage kimchi, thick-cut smoked bacon, Brussels sprouts, kosher salt, black pepper, unsalted butter, and peeled, grated carrots.

Puréeing the Kimchi

Process the kimchi in a food processor until it reaches a chunky, saucy consistency. This will take about 3-4 minutes, so be patient and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Transfer the puréed kimchi to a small saucepan and set it aside.

Crispy Bacon and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Cook the bacon in a large oven-safe frying pan over medium heat until crispy, then transfer it to a paper-towel-lined plate. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan and add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down and in a single layer. Roast in the oven until golden brown, then stir and continue roasting until tender.

Assembling the Dish

When the Brussels sprouts are ready, remove them from the oven and add the butter and reserved bacon. Stir to combine, then season with salt and pepper as needed. To serve, divide the puréed kimchi among 4 shallow bowls, followed by a layer of Brussels sprouts and bacon, and finishing with a mound of grated carrots.

A Delicious Twist on a Classic

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to spice up their veggie game. The spicy kick from the kimchi pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon and sweet carrots, making it a dish that’s sure to impress. So why not give it a try and experience the flavor for yourself?