Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F. (If your oven runs cool, set it to 425ºF — I find I get better browning when I roast the Brussels sprouts at 425ºF.)

Step 2

Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, including any of the loose leaves. Cut the pancetta into 1/2-inch dice and add to the pan. Add the olive oil, the 1 1/2 tsp. salt (or less — start with a teaspoon if you are sensitive to salt) and the 1/2 tsp. pepper and toss with your hands. Spread out the mixture in a single layer.

Step 3

Roast the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and nicely browned and the pancetta is cooked, 20 to 30 minutes, tossing once at the 20-minute mark.

Step 4

Meanwhile, if using standard balsamic vinegar, place it in a small saucepan or frying pan and simmer gently until it is reduced by half and looking syrupy — be careful here! Err on the side of under reducing — once the balsamic starts thickening, it can burn quickly. At the first sign of the balsamic getting too thick or dark, transfer it to a small bowl.

Step 5

Remove pan from the oven, drizzle immediately with the balsamic vinegar and toss again. (I like using the entire quarter cup of reduced balsamic, but add to taste.) Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.