I'm a big believer that brussels sprouts may be the perfect vegetable. They are cute and cuddly, tasty and go well with just about anything. In addition, brussels sprouts are available at the farmers' markets throughout most of the winter. That is why, this year I decided to whip up a batch of brussel sprouts to go alongside the turkey for our Christmas dinner.

What was so special about these sprouts? Well, it took me all of ten minutes to make the dish and they were outstanding! How could you go wrong when you cook anything with smoked bacon, onions, garlic, cream and smoked cheddar.

Long live the brussels sprout!

Lavallée's Spectacular Sprouts

1lbs brussels sprouts; washed and sliced
4 slices of double smoked bacon; cubed
1 onion; thinly sliced
1 clove garlic; minced
1 tbsp butter
¼ C 35% cream
1 C grated smoked cheddar
salt & pepper to taste

In a hot pan, add the butter and bacon; cook until bacon starts to become translucent. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft. Add the brussels sprouts and cook a further 4-5 minutes. Add cream and season to taste. Add cheese and serve.

If using later in the day or week, I added panko crumbs to the top of mine and gratineed it too. This will add a bit of crunch which can be nice.