Brussels sprouts halved and charred cut-side down until crisp and caramelised, finished with smoky bacon. The high heat transforms their bitterness into nutty sweetness.
smokeandsoil.com/recipes/charred-brussels-sprouts-with-bacon
by L Field
Prep
10 min
Cook
12 min
Total
22 min
Serves
4
Level
Hard
Method
BBQ
Ingredients
High heat transforms these vegetables completely. The char isn’t just cosmetic — it’s structural, adding a necessary bitterness that balances the natural sweetness locked inside each sprout. When cooked over direct heat in a cast iron skillet, Brussels sprouts develop a texture and depth that boiling or steaming simply can’t achieve.
Adding lardons brings a smoky richness that complements the sprouts’ earthy notes, while a simple seasoning of salt and black pepper lets the ingredients speak for themselves. Olive oil helps to crisp the edges without masking the clean, whole-food flavours at the heart of this dish.
This recipe is a reminder that BBQ isn’t reserved for large cuts or elaborate setups. It’s about using fire as a tool to coax out the best in seasonal, homegrown produce — straightforward, thoughtful cooking that fits into everyday life. The cast iron skillet on the BBQ gives you control over clean smoke and direct heat, making this a reliable method for consistent results, even if you’re new to fire cooking.
Ingredients
trimmed and halved
cut into 1cm lardons
Health Notes
This recipe uses quality, whole ingredients cooked with minimal processing. The grilling method adds flavour without the need for heavy sauces or added fats, making it a relatively straightforward nutritional option.
Notes
Seasonal Variations
Nutrition (per serving, estimate)
180
kcal
6g
protein
15g
carbs
10g
fat
Values are estimates and vary with portion size and preparation.
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Prepare the Grill and Fuel
Light a full chimney of Weber briquettes. Once the coals are fully lit and covered in a light grey ash (approx. 15-20 minutes), pour them onto one side of the charcoal grate to establish a direct, high-heat zone. Place the cooking grate on the kettle and put the lid on. Allow the grill to preheat for 5 minutes, aiming for a dome temperature of 200°C.
Render the Bacon
Place the cast iron skillet or grill basket over the direct heat zone. Add the bacon lardons and cook, stirring occasionally with tongs, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is crisp. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Prepare and Char the Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and pepper. The oil is a binder and a heat conductor. Add the seasoned sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring once, to coat and begin the cooking process.
Finish with Direct Heat
For maximum char, transfer the sprouts directly onto the preheated cooking grate over the direct heat zone. Cook for a further 4-5 minutes, turning them once or twice. The goal is a deep, dark char on the cut side and a tender-crisp texture throughout. The internal temperature should be around 85°C for optimal tenderness.
Combine and Serve
Return the charred sprouts to the skillet or bowl. Toss with the reserved crispy bacon lardons. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional flaky sea salt and pepper if required. Serve immediately.
Combine and Serve
Return the charred sprouts to the skillet or bowl. Toss with the reserved crispy bacon lardons. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional flaky sea salt and pepper if required. Serve immediately.
Health Notes
This recipe uses quality, whole ingredients cooked with minimal processing. The grilling method adds flavour without the need for heavy sauces or added fats, making it a relatively straightforward nutritional option.
Per serving (estimate)
180
kcal
6g
protein
15g
carbs
10g
fat
cookware
A cast iron skillet is an essential tool for anyone serious about cooking over fire or on any cooker. Its ability to retain and evenly distribute heat transforms ordinary cooking into something exceptional. At Smoke & Soil, where the focus is on clean, whole-food cooking and elevating everyday BBQ, the cast iron skillet fits perfectly. It allows you to achieve a superior sear and caramelisation that simply cannot be matched by other pans. Whether you are smashing burgers, caramelising seasonal vegetables, or finishing off a delicate sauce, the skillet is your go-to workhorse. Using a cast iron skillet encourages a mindful approach to cooking. It demands respect and care, which aligns with our ethos of thoughtful, no-nonsense BBQ. The pan’s natural seasoning builds up over time, creating a non-stick surface that improves with use. This means every meal cooked in it tastes better, and the pan becomes a trusted companion in your kitchen and BBQ setup. It also bridges the gap between indoor and outdoor cooking, turning any cooker into a versatile searing platform. Practically, the skillet is incredibly versatile but requires some attention to detail. Preheating on medium heat for a few minutes is enough to achieve the perfect cooking temperature without warping the pan. Avoid cooking acidic foods for long periods as they can strip the seasoning, but quick deglazes are fine and help build flavour. With proper care, a cast iron skillet will last a lifetime and become a cornerstone of your cooking arsenal.
Written by
L Field
