Braised Brussel Sprouts with Pancetta & Balsamic

Posted by jgreghenry
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braised brussels sprouts

Summary

Yield
Prep Time30 minutes

Description

Brussels sprouts have gotten a bad wrap and it's not their fault. This braised reipe proves you love Brussels sprouts.

Ingredients

  • 2 c fresh breadcrumbs
  • 2 t oregano leaves, minced
  • 2 t lemon zest
  • 2 lb baby brussels sprouts, washed and trimmed (cut larger ones in two)
  • 3 T unsalted butter
  • 1⁄2 c olive oil
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 c pancetta, diced into lardons
  • 2 T garlic, peeled and minced
  • 3 T red onion, minced
  • 1⁄2 c balsamic vinegar
  • 1 c chicken broth
  • 2 T parsley leaves, chopped

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix bread crumbs with the oregano and zest. Pour 1/4-cup olive oil onto a cookie sheet, followed by the breadcrum mixture. Mix well. Toast it in the oven, tossing frequently, until golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes.

Heat butter and remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
until foamy. Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down, sprinkle with salt and
pepper, and sauté, until bottoms lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Work in
batches until all the sprouts are browned removing them to a plate when finished

Leaving any liquids in the pan add the diced pancetta, and sauté, tossing
frequently, until they begin to brown.

Return all the sprouts to the pan and cook over medium high heat until well
browned and softened slightly, about 8 minutes more. The pancetta will be crisp.
Reduce heat; add red onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant, 2 minutes.

Increase heat to high, add balsamic vinegar and stock, and cook, tossing
frequently, until sprouts are glazed and tender, about 10 minutes; add more stock
if needed. Taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary, and sprinkle with chopped
parsley. Transfer to a warm serving bowl and scatter breadcrumbs on top.

Notes

serves 6