Glazed Brussels Sprouts on Olive Oil-Fried Bread

Preheat oven to 225°F. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet over medium. (Trim bread to fit skillet if necessary.) Place 1 bread half, cut side down, in skillet. Fry, occasionally pressing down middle with a spatula, until golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer bread, cut side up, to a baking sheet. Repeat with 1 tablespoon oil and remaining bread half. Remove skillet from heat. Rub cut sides of bread generously with garlic; season with ¼ teaspoon salt. Transfer baking sheet to oven to keep bread warm.

Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to skillet over medium. Carefully add Brussels sprouts, mostly cut side down, and cook, undisturbed, until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and toss. Cook, undisturbed, until golden in parts, 4 to 5 minutes. Add pomegranate juice, vinegar, and ½ teaspoon salt; stir to coat. Bring to a simmer over medium. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, stirring often, until Brussels sprouts are tender and liquid reduces to a glaze, 15 to 18 minutes.

Stir ricotta and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Spread over cut sides of bread. Top with Brussels sprouts, hazelnuts, parsley, and several grinds of pepper. Cut each bread half into 4 pieces.