Macadamia Free Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pork Belly and Apples
There's something deeply satisfying about a skillet dish that manages to hit sweet, savory, smoky, and tangy all at once — and this one absolutely delivers. Pork belly is cooked low and slow in a cold pan until the fat renders out and each cube turns irresistibly golden and crispy, which sets the whole dish up for success. Brussels sprouts go in cut-side down and stay untouched until they develop a deep, caramelized sear, then get tossed with fragrant garlic and tender apple pieces that bring a bright, fruity contrast. A quick drizzle of maple syrup and apple cider vinegar reduces into a glossy glaze that ties every element together beautifully. The whole thing comes together in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the results. It's the kind of recipe that feels impressive enough for a dinner party but honest enough for a weeknight — no specialty ingredients, no hidden allergens, just clean, bold flavors from start to finish.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 6 oz fresh pork belly, skin removed, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 lb brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 medium honeycrisp or fuji apple, cored and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and pepper, to taste
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the pork belly cubes in a cold large (12-inch) skillet and set over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until the fat has rendered and the pieces are golden brown and crispy on most sides. Transfer the pork belly to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- 2
Pour off all but about 1 teaspoon of the rendered fat from the skillet. Add the olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the cut sides are deep golden brown.
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