Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta

These Brussels sprouts with pancetta and maple syrup are perfectly caramelized for the best salty-sweet, crispy bite that goes with anything.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword brussels sprouts

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 378kcal

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is fragrant and beginning to crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain and set aside.
While the pancetta is cooking, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut in half from the root to the tips of the sprout. Raise the temperature of the pan to medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down in an even layer, and cook for 4-5 minutes, and the sprouts begin to brown and caramelize, then turn, season with kosher salt and black pepper, reduce the heat to medium, and cover with a lid. Add another tablespoon of oil to the bottom of the pan if needed. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the sprouts are fork-tender.
Add the pancetta back to the pan with the sprouts. Whisk the remaining tablespoon of olive oil with the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, add to the sprouts, tossing to coat, and cook for another minute or two, so the sprouts are still fork-tender but not mushy. Season with more kosher salt and ground black pepper and serve.

*You could also use regular bacon if you'd prefer. Just choose a really good quality brand or pick it up directly from the meat counter itself. The lesser brands of bacon turn out all fat and end up becoming a grease bomb without much flavor.