Ingredients:
- lbs (680 g) Brussels Sprouts, trimmed and halved
- strips Thick-Cut Smoked Bacon, chopped into small lardons
- /2 cup (60 g) Pecan Halves
- Tbsp (30 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- tsp Kosher Salt
- /2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Tbsp (45 ml) Grade A Dark Maple Syrup
- /4 cup (60 ml) Good Quality Balsamic Vinegar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve all Brussels sprouts.
- Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and reserve on paper towels; reserve the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add pecans to the same skillet with the bacon fat (or a touch of oil if needed). Toast lightly for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with about 1 tablespoon of the reserved bacon fat, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet (ensure they are not crowded).
- Roast for 15 minutes.
- Remove sprouts from the oven, toss gently, and scatter the cooked bacon back over them. Return to the oven for another 10–12 minutes until tender-crisp and nicely charred.
- While the sprouts finish, combine maple syrup and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced by about half and lightly coats the back of a spoon.
- Transfer the roasted sprouts and bacon to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with toasted pecans immediately before serving.