Few dishes spark more intense feelings at the Thanksgiving and Christmas table than Brussels sprouts. A close runner up is probably sweet potato casserole – you know, the stuff with the brown sugar and marshmallows on top? I’ve always hated that stuff. But my parents and brother loved it so we always had it every year. Brussels sprouts on the other hand…I love them! But I also know plenty of people who hate them and guess what? It turns out there’s a good reason for it because, like I’ve mentioned in the past, there’s actually a gene that causes people to detest practically anything in the cabbage family (including cabbage, kale, and broccoli). And Brussels sprouts tend to be the crowning object of that hatred among these unfortunate gene possessors. I thank my lucky stars I was born without it because Brussels sprouts are simply too good to live without. Especially when they’re roasted and then sprinkled with BACON, cranberries and drizzled with a wonderful balsamic reduction! So if you’re looking for a delicious way to serve up Brussels sprouts, look no further because these are bound to be a hit at your dinner table!
Let’s get started! Remove any wilted outer leaves of the Brussels sprouts, trim the bottoms and cut them in half. Place them in a large bowl.
Use the bacon grease from the bacon you fried to pour over the Brussels sprouts. Give them a few tosses to evenly coat them.
Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and bake them in an oven preheated to 400 degrees F for 35-40 minutes until they’re lightly browned, giving them a shake a time or two after 20 minutes into baking.
Transfer the Brussels sprouts onto a serving platter and sprinkle the with the bacon and cranberries.
The balsamic reduction will have been made while the Brussels sprouts are baking or in advance. To make it simply place one cup of dark balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it has thickened. Don’t simmer it too long or the vinegar will become ultra thick and dry into a rock hard mass. If that happens simply a little bit more vinegar and reheat it until re-thickened.
Drizzle a little bit of the balsamic reduction over the Brussels sprouts. Don’t use too much, it’s potent stuff!
Serve immediately and enjoy!
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