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Brussels Sprouts with Shallots and Salt Pork

This seasonal side dish of brussels sprouts with shallots and salt pork offers a sophisticated twist on a classic winter vegetable. By caramelising the shallots and sprouts in the rendered fat from the pork, you develop a deep, savoury flavour that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the brassicas. The addition of pickle juice provides a clever hit of acidity, cutting through the richness to create a perfectly balanced accompaniment for any roast dinner.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this recipe focuses on high-fibre vegetables and heart-healthy cooking techniques. The salt pork provides a punchy saltiness that means you can use minimal added seasoning, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their sodium and carbohydrate intake. Serve this alongside lean roast poultry or a nut roast for a nutritious, homemade meal that does not compromise on texture or taste.

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Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts with Shallots and Salt Pork

  • 150g 1/4" cubes salt pork or pancetta (about 230g )

  • 2 large shallots, peeled, quartered (about 230g )

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 675g brussels sprouts, outer leaves removed, trimmed, halved

  • 1-2 tablespoons juice from jarred dill pickles

How to make Brussels Sprouts with Shallots and Salt Pork

Blanch salt pork in a large saucepan of boiling water for 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer salt pork to a paper towel- lined plate to drain. Set aside. DO AHEAD: Salt pork can be blanched 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.

Cook salt pork in a large heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until about 180ml fat is rendered, 10-12 minutes. Carefully strain drippings into a small bowl; return 2 tablespoons drippings and pork to pan.

Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until salt pork is browned and crisp, 5-6 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons drippings to skillet; add shallots, cut sides down. Cook, turning once or twice, until tender and browned, 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer shallots to a serving platter.

Increase heat to medium-high. Add 2 tablespoons more salt pork drippings to skillet. Working in 2 batches and adding 2 more tablespoons drippings between batches, cook brussels sprouts, turning occasionally, until tender and browned. Transfer brussels sprouts to platter with shallots. DO AHEAD: Shallots and brussels sprouts can be made 1 hour ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm shallots and brussels sprouts together in same skillet over medium heat before continuing.

Drizzle shallots and brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon pickle juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper and 1 tablespoon more pickle juice, if desired. Scatter salt pork over.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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