Balsamic Braised Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta

Brussels sprouts, especially when harvested after a frost and prepared with care, have a sweet, complex flavor, ill-deserving of their reputation as everyone's least-favorite vegetable.  This recipe may well convert those whose past experiences with sprouts have been negative; it is a Morrow family Thanksgiving staple.


BALSAMIC BRAISED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH PANCETTA
from www.smittenkitchen.com

Serves 6 to 8 as a side

1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 teaspoons thyme leaves
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus an extra glug or two for drizzling
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
2 pounds medium-sized Brussels sprouts, washed and trimmed
Salt and pepper
6 ounces pancetta in small dice (1 1/2 cups)
3 tablespoons minced shallots
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 cups veal stock, rich chicken or vegetable broth, more if needed
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix bread crumbs and thyme with a couple glugs of olive oil, and spread on a cookie sheet. Toast, tossing frequently, until golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes.

Heat butter and remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until foamy. Add brussels sprouts, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and sauté, tossing frequently, until lightly browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Add diced pancetta, and sauté, tossing frequently, until sprouts are well browned and softened slightly, and pancetta is crisp, about 10 to 15 minutes more. Reduce heat, add shallots and garlic, and sauté until fragrant, 2 minutes.

Increase heat to high, add balsamic vinegar and stock, and cook, tossing frequently, until sprouts are glazed and tender, about 20 minutes; add more stock if needed. Taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Transfer to a warm serving bowl and scatter bread crumbs on top.