Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I want to share with you a delightful recipe that holds a special place in my heart. Every time I prepare these skillet-braised Brussels sprouts, it takes me back to a cherished memory with my dear friend Lisa. We spent a cozy evening by the fireplace, savoring these sprouts and sharing stories. So, let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s perfect for creating memories with your loved ones.
How to Prepare Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients for Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, sliced into 1/4-inch strips, or more to taste
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced, or more to taste
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon butter, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, or to taste
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions for Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts
- Cook bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until just crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a
paper towel-lined plate, reserving bacon grease in the skillet. - Place Brussels sprouts in the skillet with the cut-sides down. Increase heat to medium-high and sauté in
the bacon grease until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes. - Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken stock and cover the skillet with a lid; simmer until Brussels sprouts are bright green, 3 to
5 minutes. Remove the lid and continue simmering until the liquid is evaporated and sprouts are at the
desired tenderness, 3 to 5 more minutes. - Remove the skillet from the heat. Add bacon, butter, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper; stir until the
butter is melted.
These Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts are a wonderful side dish for any occasion. The combination of crispy bacon,
tender sprouts, and the subtle tang of balsamic vinegar creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking is simply irresistible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well in this recipe and offers a slightly leaner option without compromising on
taste.
2. How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming too mushy?
To keep the Brussels sprouts from getting too mushy, make sure to monitor the cooking time closely and avoid
overcooking them.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
4. What can I serve these skillet-braised Brussels sprouts with?
These sprouts make a fantastic side dish for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a topping for creamy
pasta.
5. How can I add an extra kick of flavor?
Consider sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish for an added
burst of flavor.
6. Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can blanch the Brussels sprouts a day ahead and then finish the dish in the skillet just before
serving.
So there you have it, a heartwarming and delicious Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts recipe that’s perfect for
creating beautiful memories around the table. Enjoy these sprouts with your loved ones and make every meal a
special occasion!
Happy cooking!
Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon sliced into 1/4-inch strips, or more to taste
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 1 clove garlic thinly sliced, or more to taste
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon butter or to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or to taste
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until just crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving bacon grease in the skillet.
- Place Brussels sprouts in the skillet with the cut-sides down. Increase heat to medium-high and saute in the bacon grease until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken stock and cover skillet with a lid; simmer until Brussels sprouts are bright green, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the lid and continue simmering, until liquid is evaporated and sprouts are at desired tenderness, 3 to 5 more minutes.
- Remove skillet from the heat. Add bacon, butter, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper; stir until butter is melted.
