Easy Recipe: Pan-Fried Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic!

So friends do you remember your childhood memories with Brussels sprouts. Those miniature cabbages that haunted childhood dinners and sparked vegetable-related rebellion. But wait! Before you relegate them back to the frozen food aisle,  hear me out. Pan-fried Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic recipe is a revelation,  a flavor bomb that transforms these humble veggies into addictive,  caramelized gems. So friends this beginner's guide will equip you with the tools to conquer the crunch and become a Brussels sprout champion.

Pan Fried Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Recipe 

Pan Fried Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic

Ingredients of Pan Fried Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Recipe 

1) 1 pound Brussels sprouts,  trimmed and halved

2) 4 slices thick-cut bacon,  chopped

3) 2 tablespoons olive oil

4) 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

5) 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 

6) Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Chopped walnuts,  crumbled blue cheese,  or a drizzle of honey

Equipment

1) A large skillet or cast iron pan

2) Tongs

3) Spatula

4) Measuring spoons

5) Cutting board and knife

Prep Time: Tame the Tiny Titans

1. Trim those sprouts: Discard any wilted outer leaves and trim the stem ends. Halve the Brussels sprouts lengthwise,  aiming for even pieces.

2. Chop the bacon: Grab your sharpest knife and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. The smaller the pieces,  the crispier they'll get.

3. Gather your spices: Measure out the balsamic vinegar,  thyme,  salt,  and pepper. Pro tip: For a deeper flavor,  crack some fresh black pepper over the pan while cooking.

Battle Stations: The Sizzle and Sear

1. Heat the oil: Pour the olive oil into your pan and set it over medium heat. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom.

2. Bacon blitz: Toss the chopped bacon into the hot oil and cook until crispy and golden brown. This is where the magic starts – the bacon fat will infuse the oil with savory goodness.

3. Sprouts on the scene: Drain the excess bacon fat (unless you're feeling extra decadent) and add the Brussels sprouts to the pan. Spread them out in an even layer and let them sear for a few minutes without moving them. This allows for those beautiful caramelized edges to develop.

The Dance of the Drizzle: Sweet and Savory Harmony

1. Balsamic bliss: Once the Brussels sprouts have browned slightly,  turn the heat down to low and drizzle in the balsamic vinegar. Watch as it sizzles and coats the sprouts, creating a sticky,  sweet glaze.

2. Season to perfection: Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over the pan. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings and let the flavors meld.

3. Simmer and savor: Cover the pan and simmer for 5-7 minutes,  or until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp. Resist the urge to overcook them – we want a delightful bite,  not mushy mush.

Victory Lap: Finishing Touches and Triumphant Presentation

1. Taste test: Uncover the pan and take a peek. If the Brussels sprouts are tender and the balsamic glaze has thickened slightly, you're good to go! If they need a little more time,  simmer for another minute or two.

2. Optional embellishments: Feeling fancy? Sprinkle on some chopped walnuts for a nutty crunch,  crumble in some blue cheese for a creamy tang,  or drizzle with a touch of honey for a touch of sweetness.

3. Serve with pride: Transfer the glorious pan-fried Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and bask in the applause (or at least the satisfied sighs) of your fellow diners.

 

Beyond the Basics: Brussels Sprouts Brilliance

So foodies this pan-fried Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic recipe is just the beginning of your Brussels sprout adventure. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage,  add a splash of Dijon mustard for a kick,  or toss in some sliced onion or apples for a touch of sweetness and crunch. Remember,  the key is to embrace the caramelization and let the flavors dance in the pan.

Final Thoughts 

So my friends in the end all I can say is that pan-fried Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic recipe is a dish that's easy to prepare,  packed with flavor,  and guaranteed to turn even the most skeptical sprout skeptic into a convert. Grab your pan,  gather your ingredients,  and get ready to conquer the crunch!

Bonus Tip: Leftover Brussels sprouts? Don't fret! They're delicious chopped up and added to salads,  omelets,  or even pasta dishes. The possibilities are endless!

Now go forth and spread the Brussels sprout gospel!