Crispy Brussels sprouts recipe

Crispy Brussels Sprouts are a culinary delight that combines the natural sweetness of these tiny vegetables with a crispy, golden exterior. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to elevate your holiday meals or simply add some excitement to your weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors, from the savory garlic and honey to the tangy kick of black pepper, will leave you and your guests craving more. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, washed and halved lengthwise
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup olive oil, divided in half
• Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for garnish

Instructions

1. : Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking tray in the oven to preheat with it.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, removing any excess dirt and picking off any yellow or wilted leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
3. Season the Sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with half of the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to ensure each sprout is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
4. Add Honey: Drizzle the honey over the Brussels sprouts and toss again to coat evenly.
5. Roast the Sprouts: Remove the preheated baking tray from the oven and place the seasoned Brussels sprouts on it. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over them.
6. Roast in the Oven: Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Stir them halfway through the roasting time to ensure even browning.
7. Garnish with Herbs (Optional): If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.

Top Tips

1. Even Sizing: Try to buy evenly sized Brussels sprouts to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up at the same rate.
2. Quality Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Roast the Brussels sprouts in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the baking tray. This ensures they have enough space to crisp up properly.
4. Check for Crispiness: Keep an eye on the Brussels sprouts while they are roasting. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or chili flakes to give your Brussels sprouts a unique twist.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the crispy Brussels sprouts immediately after roasting for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Peanut Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle roasted Brussels sprouts with a spicy peanut sauce made from peanut butter, lime juice, tamari, sriracha, and water. Top with crushed peanuts and sliced red chilies.
2. Shiitake Bacon & Brussels Sprouts: Finish roasted Brussels sprouts with shiitake bacon bits and a drizzle of soy sauce.
3. Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley.
4. Thai Peanut Brussels Sprouts: Mix roasted Brussels sprouts with Thai peanut sauce, crushed peanuts, and cilantro.
5. Garlic Herb Brussels Sprouts: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the seasoning mixture before roasting.
6. Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Cook diced bacon in a skillet until crispy, then toss roasted Brussels sprouts with the bacon bits.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is rich in vitamins K and C, as well as fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. The high antioxidant content of Brussels sprouts also helps prevent cell damage and supports overall health. Enjoy your crispy Brussels sprouts as a side dish or snack, knowing you’re getting a boost of nutrients with each bite.