Crispy Bacon & Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Make Crispy Bacon & Brussels Sprouts Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Main
Seasoning & Finish
Method
Preparation
- 1
Trim and halve
Trim the woody stems from the Brussels sprouts. Remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. Cut larger sprouts in half through the stem so cut surfaces are flat; leave small ones whole.
- 2
Mince aromatics
Peel and finely dice the yellow onion to measure about 1/2 cup. Peel and mince the 2 garlic cloves.
Cooking
- 3
Cook bacon until crisp
In a large (12-inch) skillet, place the 6 slices of thick-cut bacon over medium heat in a single layer. Cook, flipping occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate. Reserve 1 to 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet and discard any excess fat (or save for another use).
- 4
Sauté onion and garlic
If there is less than 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high, add the diced onion and cook, stirring, until softened and beginning to brown, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 5
Brown Brussels sprouts
Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet cut-side down in a single layer as much as possible. Let them sear without stirring for 3–4 minutes until the cut sides are deeply golden-brown. Stir and continue to cook, tossing occasionally, until sprouts are tender and edges are caramelized, another 4–6 minutes. If the pan becomes dry, add up to 1–2 tablespoons water and cover for 1–2 minutes to help steam and soften large sprouts, then uncover and continue browning.
- 6
Season and finish
Crumble or chop the cooked bacon and add it back to the skillet along with any accumulated bacon juices from the plate. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook 1 minute to let flavors meld. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon maple syrup (if using) to brighten and balance flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- 7
Garnish and serve
Transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve hot.
