Originally titled "Thunderbird Orange Bacon Brussels Sprouts," this recipe came to life for a little get-together I attended where we watched the Air Force's elite flying team--the Thunderbirds--perform for the Air Force Academy's graduation ceremony. Apart from that context, the title didn't make much sense! The fabulous part is that this all came together in minutes using just a handful of ingredients that I happened to have at the time and absolutely zero forethought. I've said it before: when you keep quality ingredients around, you'll find yourself inspired to concoct combinations fueled by fresh ingredients and great pantry staples. Maybe it doesn't work perfectly the first time around, but you learn from any flavor mistakes and move on to the next creative endeavor! 

These flavor combos would also work great with roasted broccoli or any other cruciferous veg. The sky's the limit! 

Ingredients: 

• 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, rinsed and shredded (I use the blade attachment on my food processor, which makes this step exceptionally easy. You can also slice individually with a sharp knife, or purchase pre-shredded sprouts)
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 4-5 pieces bacon (I always recommend pastured and minimal ingredients when you can find it)
• 1.5 Tbs sugar free orange jam (I like this brand because it doesn't have any wonky additives and no additional sugar--just fruit)
• 1 Tbs coconut aminos (I also like this brand)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder or 1/2 tsp freshly chopped garlic
• smoked sea salt (to taste, about 1/2 tsp)
• freshly cracked black pepper
• optional: a few tablespoons of chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds

Directions: 

1. In a medium-sized deep saucepan, cook your bacon on medium-high heat until crisp but not overcooked. Remove and set aside. 
2. Add diced onion straight into the pan with the bacon grease and saute briefly. Sprinkle in your sea salt, garlic, and cracked black pepper. 
3. Add your shredded Brussels sprouts, stirring well. Reduce heat to medium-low. 
4. Add the orange jam and coconut aminos to the pan, stirring well to incorporate. 
5. Continue to stir occasionally until cooked, less than 5 minutes, checking to desired level of bite (i.e. if you want more crunch or not). 
6. Remove from heat and toss with the chopped bacon and toasted nuts, if using. 
7. Enjoy immensely! 

No doubt, these sprouts are packed full of flavor! Add these to your summer bbq roundup or just keep them as a fast and simple weeknight meal side. Let me know what you think in the comments below! 

In loving health, 

Ashley 

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