As a child, my memories of Brussels sprouts were tainted by the soggy, frozen versions my mom used to boil for dinner. The unappetizing texture turned me away from Brussels sprouts for years. However, the Brussels sprouts landscape has transformed since then, and they’ve become a popular item on menus across the nation, Air Fried Brussels Sprouts served in a vastly more palatable manner.
Unlike the boiled Brussels sprouts of my childhood, contemporary renditions are often roasted to perfection, resulting in a delightful crunch that makes them downright delicious. The culinary world has embraced these little green orbs, elevating them from a dreaded side dish to a sought-after delicacy. These revamped Brussels sprouts can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing for a customizable and flavorful experience.
One popular preparation involves tossing the Brussels sprouts in Parmesan cheese, creating a savory and cheesy coating that adds depth to the vegetable’s natural flavors. Alternatively, they can be adorned with zesty orange sauce, introducing a delightful tanginess that complements the sprouts’ inherent bitterness.
The newfound versatility of Brussels sprouts has made them a favorite among food enthusiasts and a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you prefer them with a cheesy twist or bathed in citrusy goodness, these crispy veggies have become a culinary sensation.
Air Fried Brussel Sprouts
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1/2 lbs Brussel Sprouts
- Parmesan Cheese
- Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil lightly coat
Instructions
- Start by rinsing and removing the top layers of your leaves if they are dried or yellow. If your Brussels sprouts have a bottom stem, cut those off as well.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove all the excess moisture. Then cut each of the Brussels sprouts in quarters.
- Next, toss the halved Brussels sprouts into a medium bowl and add in the oil and all the seasonings. Stir together until mixed well.
- Place your Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray and set your cook time for 8-10 minutes. Half way through the cook time, remove the basket and give it a good shake to turn the sprouts. This way no one spot will over crisp or burn.
- Heat the air frier to 350 degrees F. and place your tray full of Brussel Sprouts inside.
- Check that the outside crispiness is to your liking. If you want them a little crisper, add another 1-2 extra minutes.
- The Brussels sprouts will shrink as they cook. Give them another good shake in the basket to mix them up and then gather them off to one side of the basket, still keeping them in pretty much in a single layer.
- Remove from air Frier and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve.
Video
Notes
- Instead of extra virgin olive oil try using avocado oil, sesame or balsamic vinegar for a twist in flavor.
- Add different spices for extra flavor to add to your crispy sprouts, such as garlic powder or Cajun seasoning.
- Add some lemon zest or a drizzle of lemon juice or lime juice for a citrus flavor before cooking.
- Make sure to trim Brussels sprouts before you roast them.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
Brussels Sprouts Brussels
Brussels sprouts can be transformed into a delectable appetizer with a variety of creative and flavorful preparations. Here are some enticing ways to serve Air Fried Brussels Sprouts:
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan:
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry them until crispy and golden brown.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for a savory kick.
- Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Skewers:
- Thread Brussels sprouts onto skewers and brush them with a balsamic glaze.
- Grill or Air Fry until they are caramelized and slightly charred.
- Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Bites:
- Shave Brussels sprouts thinly and toss them with Caesar dressing.
- Spoon the dressed sprouts onto endive leaves or small lettuce cups for a handheld Caesar salad bite.
- Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts:
- Combine Brussels sprouts with a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Roast until the sprouts are caramelized and glazed with the sweet and tangy sauce.
- Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers:
- Wrap Brussels sprouts with bacon strips and secure with toothpicks.
- Bake or grill until the bacon is crispy and the sprouts are tender.
- Serve with a dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or garlic aioli.
- Buffalo Brussels Sprouts:
- Toss Brussels sprouts in buffalo sauce and roast until crispy.
- Serve with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Brussels Sprouts Sliders:
- Roast Brussels sprouts halves until crispy.
- Place them between small slider buns with your favorite toppings, such as caramelized onions, cheese, and a dollop of aioli.
- Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Chips:
- Slice Brussels sprouts thinly to create chips.
- Toss the slices in olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan.
- Bake until the chips are crispy and serve as a crunchy appetizer.
- Sesame Ginger Brussels Sprouts:
- Sauté Brussels sprouts with sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ginger.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an Asian-inspired appetizer.
- Brussels Sprouts Crostini:
- Air Fry Brussels sprouts and mash them into a spread with garlic and olive oil.
- Spread the mixture on toasted baguette slices and garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a flavorful crostini.
These creative and delicious Brussels sprouts are sure to impress your guests and showcase the versatility of this once-maligned vegetable.
Nutritional Benefits of Brussel Sprouts
Beyond their newfound culinary popularity, Brussels sprouts also boast impressive nutritional benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, these tiny cruciferous vegetables are a nutritional powerhouse. They are particularly rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health, while vitamin C is essential for a robust immune system and collagen production. Folate, another vital nutrient found in Brussels sprouts, is important for cell division and the formation of DNA.
Furthermore, Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Their high fiber content supports digestive health and can contribute to weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.
In conclusion, Brussels sprouts have undergone a remarkable transformation from a childhood nemesis to a beloved culinary delight. With various delicious preparations available, these crispy veggies have earned their place on the menu and in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Moreover, their impressive nutritional profile adds an extra layer of appeal, making Brussels sprouts a win-win for both taste and health.