Historically, I have not been a huge fan of Brussels sprouts, but now I LOOOOOVE them—and I especially love them cooked this way. I’ll admit this approach takes some time—you start by peeling all the leaves off the sprouts—but it’s so worth it for the fluttery, frizzled fabulousness that happens once you cook them. Also, I find separating the leaves helps get rid of that cabbagey flavor that people who think they don’t like Brussels sprouts complain about. Listen: If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, try these; I’ve made a lot of converts this way. The salty deliciousness of pancetta, the crunchy nuttiness of walnuts, and the delicate little leaves make this something special—not like any Brussels sprouts you’ve ever had.
Recipe information
Yield
serves: 4
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Coat a large sauté pan with olive oil; add the garlic and red pepper and bring to medium heat. When the garlic has turned a lovely golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes, remove it from the pan and ditch it—it has fulfilled its garlic destiny!
Step 2
Add the pancetta and walnuts and cook until the pancetta is crispy and brown, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the Brussels sprouts and toss to combine. Season with salt, cover, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the sprouts have wilted.
Step 3
Remove the lid, raise the heat to medium-high, and let the sprout leaves brown and “frizzle,” 8 to 10 minutes more. Taste and season with salt if needed.
note
Step 4
Don’t be hesitant about letting the sprouts brown—the darker & crispier the sprouts get, the better they taste!
