Prepare to revolutionize your vegetable game with the most mouthwatering Brussels sprouts recipe you'll ever encounter! Imagine crispy, golden-brown sprouts kissed by smoky bacon, caramelized to perfection, and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This isn't just a side dish – it's a culinary transformation that will turn even the most stubborn veggie skeptics into Brussels sprouts enthusiasts.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the tough stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring even cooking and maximum caramelization.
- In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Render the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the crispy bacon pieces from the pan using a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Add olive oil to the bacon drippings in the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high to create a hot cooking surface that will help caramelize the Brussels sprouts.
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper caramelization. Cook without stirring for 6-8 minutes until the cut sides turn a deep golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Season the Brussels sprouts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gently flip the sprouts to cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes until they are tender and caramelized all over.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the caramelized Brussels sprouts, allowing it to create a glossy and slightly tangy coating. Toss gently to distribute the vinegar evenly.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and mix them with the caramelized Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are well combined.
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon to a serving dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the crispy caramelized exterior and rich bacon flavor to be fully appreciated.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tight, compact leaves for the best caramelization.
- Dry is Key: After washing, thoroughly pat the Brussels sprouts dry. Excess moisture prevents proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the ultimate caramelization, a heavy-bottomed cast-iron skillet is your best friend. It provides even heat distribution and creates that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give your sprouts breathing room! Overcrowding prevents proper caramelization and leads to steaming instead of browning.
- Patience is Crucial: Let the sprouts sit undisturbed for 6-8 minutes to develop that beautiful golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to constantly stir!
- Bacon Fat Magic: The reserved bacon drippings add incredible depth of flavor, so don't discard them – they're liquid gold for your recipe.
- Finish with Acid: The balsamic vinegar at the end adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the bacon and caramelized sprouts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
