Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something flavorful and satisfying, but quick enough for a weeknight meal? Then look no further! This Brussel sprouts pancetta recipe is your answer. It's a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and slightly crispy, making it the perfect accompaniment to any main course. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and packed with flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this healthy and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or honey)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
-
Prep the Brussel Sprouts: Wash and trim the Brussel sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Halve or quarter them depending on their size. Smaller sprouts need only halving, while larger ones benefit from quartering for even cooking.
-
Cook the Pancetta: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until it renders its fat and becomes crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the crispy pancetta from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
-
Sauté the Brussel Sprouts: Add the olive oil to the pan with the pancetta fat. Add the Brussel sprouts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown and tenderize – about 5-7 minutes.
-
Simmer and Season: Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Stir in the maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the Brussel sprouts are tender but still retain a slight bite.
-
Combine and Serve: Stir in the crispy pancetta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately as a delicious and easy side dish alongside your favorite protein and starch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of Brussel sprouts, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and tenderizing.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your Brussel sprouts and your stovetop. Always check for doneness by piercing a sprout with a fork.
- Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would add delicious depth of flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Brussel Sprouts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts: For a slightly different texture, roast the Brussel sprouts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the pan with the pancetta and other ingredients.
- Add other vegetables: Enhance this recipe by adding other vegetables like diced onions, carrots, or bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber and vitamins. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate for a serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This simple yet elegant side dish is perfect for any occasion. It's a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!