Ingredients:

• 1/2lb bacon, diced
• 1 table spoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons butter
• 1/4 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• salt & pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 1/2lbs brussel sprouts, trimmed & cut in half
• 2 cups chicken stock

Directions:

• Place bacon in a large skillet, cook over medium-high until evenly browned but not crispy.  Remove bacon leaving grease in the skillet.  Set aside bacon.
• Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease.  Stir in olive oil, butter, onions and garlic.  Season with salt & pepper.  Cook and stir until onion softens and garlic lightly browns.
• Stir in balsamic vinegar and bring to simmer.  Cook until liquid has reduced by a 1/3rd.  Add bacon, brown sugar, brussel sprouts and stock. Stir and bring to a boil over high heat.  Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until brussel sprouts are tender, yet slightly firm.