This dish combines the smoky flavor of meaty slab bacon with perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a culinary experience that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a standalone delight, the robust flavors will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Cook Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 3/4 pound meaty slab bacon, sliced 1-inch thick and diced
- 1/4 cup plus 1/3 cup water, divided
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, bring bacon and 1/4 cup of water to a simmer over moderate heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is browned and its fat is rendered, about 7 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels using a slotted spoon.
- Remove excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 3 tablespoons. Add Brussels sprouts to the skillet, season with salt, and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until browned, approximately 10 minutes.
- Pour in 1/3 cup of water, continue cooking, and stir occasionally until the Brussels sprouts reach a tender consistency, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Reintroduce the browned bacon into the skillet, add butter and fresh lemon juice. Toss until everything is heated through, approximately 3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve this extravagant dish that marries the robust flavor of bacon with the delightful crispiness of Brussels sprouts.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 325
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 18g
It’s important to remember that the nutritional values outlined here are rough estimates and may vary based on factors like ingredient brands and serving portions.
Cooking Tips:
- For a smokier flavor, consider using applewood-smoked bacon.
- Experiment with different varieties of Brussels sprouts for subtle flavor variations.
- Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of brightness.