Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Back in 2008, watching an NCIS dvd, with commentary, I heard the actor, David McCallum, who portrays Ducky, the medical examiner, talk about roasting Brussel sprouts in this way. I felt intrigued.. and despite never having liked the vegetable, I gave it a try. They were so good, not the smelly, mushy sprouts of my childhood, but delicious, slightly sweet. Now they're a regular, and not just at the holidays.

2 lbs brussel sprouts
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp maple syrup
sea salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 425ºF.
Wash sprouts and remove yellowed and discolored leaves, and slice in half. In a large bowl, whisk together oil and syrup ’til emulsified, then pour in the sprouts. Using your hands rub oil/syrup mixture over all sides of the sprouts until they are completely coated. Spoon the sprouts into a roasting pan, making sure to leave any extra oil/syrup in the bowl. Sprinkle with several good grinds of sea salt & black pepper. Bake in oven between 20 to 30 minutes, until they are caramelized (checking occasionally after 20 minutes. You can also insert a thin sharp knife in and if it inserts easily they are done).