Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts! This game-changing recipe transforms these often-misunderstood vegetables into a crispy, savory sensation that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds. Imagine golden-brown sprouts caramelized in rich bacon fat, each bite bursting with smoky flavor and irresistible crunch – this is not your grandmother's vegetable side dish, but a gourmet experience that will revolutionize your dinner table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels sprouts by washing thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the stem ends and remove any discolored or yellowing outer leaves.
- Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 5-6 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to occasionally stir and prevent burning.
- Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
- Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add halved Brussels sprouts to the bacon fat, cut-side down. Allow them to cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden-brown caramelized surface.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and gently toss Brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking and garlic distribution.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, continuing to sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until sprouts are tender and lightly charred.
- Return crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and toss briefly to combine and reheat.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, compact Brussels sprouts with bright green leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure all sprouts are halved to the same size for even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- High Heat is Key: Use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior without burning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook sprouts in a single layer to guarantee proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Bacon Fat Magic: Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pan – it's the secret weapon for incredible flavor and crispy edges.
- Timing Matters: Let sprouts sit undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a beautiful caramelized crust before stirring.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper – they enhance the natural flavors of the sprouts and bacon.
- Serve Immediately: These sprouts are best enjoyed hot and crispy, straight from the skillet to the plate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
