Skillet-Braised Brussels Sprouts

Braised Brussels sprouts are a quick and easy side dish for any meal. After being quickly sauteed in bacon grease, the Brussels sprouts are skillet-braised in chicken stock until tender then finished with a buttery balsamic and bacon pan sauce.

Ingredients :

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, sliced into 1/4-inch strips, or more to taste
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
• 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced, or more to taste
• ½ cup chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon butter, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, or to taste
• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions :

1. Cook bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until just crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving bacon grease in the skillet.
2. Place Brussels sprouts in the skillet with the cut-sides down. Increase heat to medium-high and saute in the bacon grease until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Pour in chicken stock and cover skillet with a lid; simmer until Brussels sprouts are bright green, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the lid and continue simmering, until liquid is evaporated and sprouts are at desired tenderness, 3 to 5 more minutes.
5. Remove skillet from the heat. Add bacon, butter, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper; stir until butter is melted.