Looking for a tasty side dish that’s simple to make? These Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts are just what you need! With just a few main ingredients, you can create a flavorful treat that everyone will love. I'll guide you through each step, from prepping the sprouts to baking them to perfection. Trust me, your dinner plate will be bursting with flavor, and your guests will be asking for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet chili sauce paired with honey and soy sauce creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that elevate Brussels sprouts to a new level.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings.
- Healthy Choice: Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, and this recipe allows you to enjoy them in a delicious way without compromising on health.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors from the garnishes of sesame seeds and green onions make this dish not only tasty but also beautiful on the plate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
Additional Flavors
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garnishes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions
The main ingredients for this dish are simple. You need one pound of fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for bright green sprouts with firm leaves. Halve them to help them cook evenly. You will also need two tablespoons of olive oil. This will help the sprouts brown nicely. The star of this dish is a quarter cup of sweet chili sauce. This sauce gives a sweet and spicy flavor.
For extra flavor, we will add one tablespoon of soy sauce. This sauce adds a nice umami taste. One tablespoon of honey will give a touch of sweetness. We also need one teaspoon of garlic powder for a savory kick.
Do not forget about garnishes! Salt and pepper will help enhance all the flavors. One tablespoon of sesame seeds adds crunch and looks great. Finally, slice two green onions to sprinkle on top. These will add color and freshness to your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly.
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients until they blend well. This sauce gives the sprouts their sweet and spicy flavor.
Toss and Coat
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil. Make sure they are well-coated. Pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the sprouts and toss again. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Bake the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and get crispy on the edges.
Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish. Serve warm to enjoy their full flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing Fresh Brussels Sprouts
Look for bright green Brussels sprouts. They should be firm and heavy for their size. Avoid yellowing leaves or soft spots. Fresh sprouts have a tight, compact shape and a nice sheen. These signs mean they are fresh and tasty.
Cooking Times
The cooking time may vary by oven. Every oven heats differently. Start with 20 minutes and check for doneness. The sprouts should be golden brown and slightly crispy. If they need more time, give them an extra 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Ensuring Crispiness
To get the best crunch, space the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet. Do not overcrowd them. This allows hot air to circulate. You can also toss them halfway through cooking for even browning. A light coat of olive oil helps achieve that crispy texture.
Pro Tips
- Tip 1: Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that are discolored or wilted for the best flavor.
- Tip 2: Cut Evenly: Halve the Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture all around.
- Tip 3: Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or sweet chili sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Tip 4: Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the Brussels sprouts right after baking while they are still warm and crispy.
Variations
Spicy Version
If you like heat, you can spice up your Brussels sprouts. Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a pinch of chili flakes. Mix them in with the sweet chili sauce. For sriracha, add a teaspoon or more, based on your taste. This will give your dish a nice kick.
Vegan Adaptations
If you want a vegan dish, you can make easy swaps. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Use a vegan sweet chili sauce. This keeps the flavor but makes it plant-based. You can also check labels to ensure all sauces are vegan.
Different Cooking Methods
You can cook Brussels sprouts in many ways. An air fryer is a great option if you want crispy sprouts. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. If you prefer stovetop cooking, sauté the sprouts in a pan. Use olive oil and cook until golden brown. This method gives a nice char and deep flavor.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftover sweet chili Brussels sprouts, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to avoid moisture inside the container. Moisture can make them soggy and less tasty.
Freezing
To freeze Brussels sprouts, first, let them cool down completely. Then, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months. When you want to use them, don’t thaw them first. Cook them straight from the freezer for best results.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, try to maintain their crispy texture. Use an oven or an air fryer for best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy. If you use a microwave, they may become soft. Always check to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
How long do I need to cook Brussels sprouts?
You should cook Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). To check if they are done, look for a golden brown color and crispy edges. You can also pierce them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, they are ready. If not, bake them a bit longer.
Can I make sweet chili Brussels sprouts in advance?
Yes, you can make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven. This helps keep them crispy.
What dishes pair well with sweet chili Brussels sprouts?
Sweet chili Brussels sprouts go well with many dishes. They complement grilled meats, like chicken or pork. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa for a healthy meal. They add flavor and color to any table. Try them alongside Asian-inspired dishes for a fun twist!
This blog post shares a simple method for making sweet chili Brussels sprouts. You learned about the right ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Experiment with variations like spicy options or vegan alternatives. Proper storage and reheating methods will keep them tasty, too. Enjoying Brussels sprouts can add great flavor to your meals. Now, you can impress friends and family with this fun dish. Happy cooking!
