Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic

You like Brussels sprouts too?  Ah, the few, the proud...oh never mind.

These flavorful little morsels are full of wonderful nutrients.  If you overcook Brussels sprouts, they do get a bit smelly.  Cook till just tender.  Smaller ones are more tender and sweeter.  Remove any yellowed outer leaves, and trim off the stems.

Serves 6.

Ingredients
1/4 pound (about 4 strips) bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 pounds Brussels sprouts, stalk ends removed, cut into halves
2 Tablespoons butter
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, pine nuts, or almonds (optional)

What to Do
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.  Add bacon pieces and cook till crisp.  Discard most of the fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.  Add the Brussels sprouts, pour in the vinegar, and saute until the vinegar caramelizes on the sprouts.  Add nuts.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.