Bacon Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

• 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Wood pellets (fruitwood like apple or cherry for a mild smokiness)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Pellet Smoker:
   • Preheat your pellet smoker to 225°F (107°C)using fruitwood pellets for a mild and complementary smoky flavor.
2. Prep Brussels Sprouts:
   • Trim the Brussels sprouts, cut them in half, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Cook Bacon and Onions:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove some of the bacon grease, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the skillet. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked bacon and onions to the bowl of Brussels sprouts. Toss in the dried cranberries.
5. Season and Coat:
   • Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
6. Smoke the Brussels Sprouts:
   • Transfer the Brussels sprouts mixture to a smoker-safe dish or a sheet pan. Place the dish directly on the preheated smoker grates.
7. Smoke for flavor:
   • Smoke the Brussels sprouts at 225°F for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the sprouts are tender and have absorbed a delicious smoky flavor.
8. Check for Doneness:
   • Periodically check the Brussels sprouts and give them a gentle stir to ensure even smoking.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once done, remove the smoked Brussels sprouts from the pellet smoker. Transfer them to a serving dish and enjoy the unique combination of smokiness, sweetness from the cranberries, and savory notes from the bacon and onions.
10. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish the smoked Brussels sprouts with additional dried cranberries or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
11. Serve Hot:
    • Serve the smoked Brussels sprouts with bacon, onions, and dried cranberries as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite grilled or smoked meats.

These smoked Brussels sprouts with bacon, onions, and dried cranberries are a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. The Blackstone Pellet Grill infuses the Brussels sprouts with a subtle smokiness while the bacon, onions, and cranberries add layers of taste and texture. Enjoy this side dish as a perfect complement to your barbecue or holiday meals.