Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash

Looking for a delicious, healthy dinner idea that is easy to put together? This Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash is your answer! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this meal will make enough for leftovers throughout the week – making your life even easier. Plus, it's cooked in the slow cooker which means you can just set it and forget it while you enjoy some extra free time after a long day of work. Ready to get cookin'? Let's jump right in!

Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

2. 4 slices bacon, chopped

3. 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

4. 1 medium onion, diced

5. 2 cloves garlic, minced

6. 1 teaspoon dried thyme

7. Salt and pepper to taste

8. Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Place the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until it is crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. Add the onions, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper to the pan with the bacon fat and stir to combine. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Add the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Grease a 6-quart slow cooker with olive oil and transfer the vegetable mixture into it, including any leftover bacon fat from the skillet.

5. Add the cooked bacon back in and stir to combine.

6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary with salt and pepper before serving.

Essential health benefits of eating Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash

1. It is a great source of vitamins A, C and K.

2. The bacon provides protein and healthy fats.

3. Sweet potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber.

4. Brussels sprouts are high in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which helps protect against free radical damage that can lead to chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

5. The combination of ingredients helps to provide a balance of essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health.

6. This dish is also low in calories, making it perfect for those who are trying to watch their weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Potential side effects of eating Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash

1. Eating too much of this dish could lead to digestive issues due to the high fat content of the bacon.

2. Those who are sensitive to nightshade vegetables, like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, may find that eating this hash causes stomach discomfort or other side effects.

3. This dish is also high in salt, so individuals who suffer from high blood pressure should be mindful of their sodium intake.

4. Additionally, those with diabetes should keep an eye on their sugar intake when eating this hash as it contains sweet potatoes which are higher in natural sugars than other vegetables.

5. Lastly, bacon is high in saturated fat, so individuals who have high cholesterol levels should exercise caution when eating this dish.

Who should eat Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash

1. Those looking for an easy, nutritious weeknight meal.

2. Those who want to try a new way of cooking Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.

3. Individuals with diabetes or high cholesterol levels who can eat the dish in moderation.

4. Vegetarians and vegans who can substitute the bacon for plant-based proteins like tempeh or tofu.

5. Those who are looking for a healthy, balanced meal that is full of essential vitamins and minerals.

6. Individuals who want to enjoy the savory flavors of bacon without having to eat large amounts of it.

Who shouldn't eat Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash

1. Those who are sensitive to nightshade vegetables or cannot tolerate them.

2. Individuals with high blood pressure due to the salt content of this dish.

3. People with digestive issues or those avoiding high-fat foods, as this dish contains bacon which is high in saturated fat.

4. Those who want a lighter meal as this dish is quite filling.

5. Vegans and vegetarians who do not wish to substitute the bacon for a plant-based protein.

6. Individuals following a low-sugar diet as this dish contains sweet potatoes which are higher in natural sugars than other vegetables.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Brussels Sprout, Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by many. It is a great source of vitamins A, C and K and provides essential proteins, carbohydrates and dietary fiber. This dish also contains healthy fats from the bacon which help to provide balance in the meal. However, individuals with specific dietary needs should take caution when consuming this dish as it contains nightshade vegetables, bacon and sweet potatoes which are high in natural sugars. Allowing the flavors to blend in a slow cooker also helps enhance the taste, making it an enjoyable and nourishing meal to enjoy.