Giada de Laurentiis: Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta

These may be my favorite things ever.  And who thought you could love Brussels sprouts this much?  I know they can be stinky and bitter, but when slowly cooked in chicken stock and pancetta, something magical happens.  I've even gotten Brussels sprouts haters to rethink their positions with this one.

Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
From Giada de Laurentiis

1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 ounces paper-thin slices pancetta, coarsely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
¾ cup chicken broth

Partially cook the Brussels sprouts in a large pot of boiling salted water, about 4 minutes. Drain.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and sauté until beginning to crisp, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until pale golden, about 2 minutes. Add the Brussels sprouts to the same skillet and sauté until heated through and beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add the broth and simmer until the broth reduces just enough to coat the Brussels sprouts, about 3 minutes. Serve.

Makes 4 servings