How To Make Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: You will need….

Step 2: Prepare the sprouts

Cut off the bottom of the sprouts, remove the outer leaves and place them into a bowl.

Step 3: Cut the bacon into lardoons

Although optional, should you choose to add the bacon we need to cut it. If you are using a thick bacon, first remove the outer layer of skin. With any kind of bacon, cut horizontally, down the length and then vertically to make bacon pieces roughly 2cm by 3cm wide. This method is called cutting into lardoons.

Step 4: Fry the bacon

Put the frying pan on a high heat and add the oil. Allow it to warm through then add the bacon lardons. Fry until crispy, while moving and turning them over with your tongs.

Step 5: Drain

Place the bacon pieces onto a plate lined with some kitchen roll to drain. Set aside until needed.

Step 6: Cook the sprouts

Put the pan, three quarters full of water onto a high heat. Add the salt and bring to the boil. Once boiling place the sprouts into the water and cook for 5 minutes until al dente, meaning slightly crunchy.

Step 7: Drain the sprouts

Place a colander in the sink and drain the sprouts well.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the sprouts into a large serving bowl. Add a generous knob of butter. Now is the time to sprinkle over the bacon lardoons, should you choose to add them. Keep warm until you are ready to serve.