Brussel Sprouts Gratin

Brussel sprouts are one of my favorite veggies. It's so tasty - in the right company, at least. And this recipe is great - it's not very healthy, sure, but it's a great comfort food. Perfect in the winter time!

Brussel Sprouts Gratin
serves 3-4

500 g brussel sprouts, cleaned and trimmed
150 g bacon, chopped
1 onion, finely diced
2 tbsp butter
1-2 tbsp flour
200 ml of cooking water from the sprouts
200 ml cream (light cream will work nicely)
shredded cheese, optional

Preheat the oven to 225°C. Fry the bacon until crispy and add the onions so that they soften a little. Boil the brussel sprouts in lightly salted water until soft (5-10 minutes), drain and reserve the water.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour. Make a paste, and then slowly add the reserved cooking water from the sprouts. Add the cream, and let it thicken into a thick sauce. Mix in the bacon and onions. Put the sprouts in an oven-proof dish, and pour the sauce over them. Top with shredded cheese, if using. (I usually don't as I'm not a very big fan of cheese in my gratins.)

Bake for 10 minutes. Serve with pasta or rice, or as a side dish.

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