Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Once cringe worthy when boiled or steamed, Brussels Sprouts have become a standard on menus everywhere because when they are roasted to a crisp perfection, they are unbeatable.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound brussels sprouts
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, to coat bottom of pan
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar glaze
  or 1 tablespoon regular balsamic vinegar combined with 2 teaspoons maple syrup

Directions:

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Trim bottom of brussels sprouts, and slice each in half top to bottom. Heat oil in cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers; put sprouts cut side down in one layer in pan. Put in garlic, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook, undisturbed, until sprouts begin to brown on bottom, and transfer to oven. Roast, shaking pan every 5 minutes, until sprouts are quite brown and tender, about 10 to 20 minutes.

Taste, and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Stir in balsamic vinegar, and serve hot or warm.