Brussels Sprouts Glazed with Balsamic Vinegar

                             Brussels Sprouts Glazed with Balsamic Vinegar 

Here’s a quick way that I cook Brussels sprouts, braised and finished with balsamic vinegar. Sprouts have a little bitterness in them, which is offset or neutralized by the vinegar. 

The recipe serves four as a side dish. (Today I did a half recipe since no one can join us.)

 

1 pound (about 24-26 medium) Brussels sprouts

2 tablespoons finely shredded onion (optional)

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more as needed

1/4 teaspoon grated black pepper

Water as needed

3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar di Modena (or 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar)

 

Trim the ends and any spoiled leaves off the sprouts. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise. 

Place cut sprouts, onion if used, and olive oil in a wide frying pan. Sprinkle with the salt and pepper and stir and fry for about a minute until pale golden fried spots appear. Add several tablespoons of water, cover the pan, and fry on lowest heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little more water as needed so the bottom of the pan is wet and the sprouts get steamed as well as fried. 

When sprouts are nearly as tender as you prefer (test with a toothpick or eat one), add salt to taste plus the balsamic or red wine vinegar, and a tiny bit more water. Stir and fry another minute or so. Check for salt, and if needed add a little more. 

Serve warm.