Balsamic Green Beans

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds fresh haricots verts (tiny green beans), trimmed
• 6 large shallots
• Vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup lightly salted roasted almonds, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 5 slices)