There’s something incredibly magical about the first bite of perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts. For me, Brussels sprouts have always been a special vegetable, evoking memories of family gatherings and culinary experiments. It’s funny how a simple dish can carry such a rich tapestry of experiences. Let me take you on a journey that connects me to these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts.
Years ago, during a cozy Thanksgiving dinner at my aunt’s house, I discovered the power of Brussels sprouts to transform a meal. My aunt, a culinary enthusiast, had prepared them with a combination of ingredients that was nothing short of revolutionary. The sprouts were tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, seasoned just right to create a delightful burst of flavor. The dish was so memorable that I decided to experiment with Brussels sprouts myself, determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve embraced the air fryer as my new kitchen ally. The air fryer has become my go-to for creating quick, healthy, and mouth-watering dishes. And what better way to celebrate this kitchen marvel than with a recipe for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts? This recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
The process is delightfully simple. Start by halving the Brussels sprouts and tossing them with olive oil, garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar. The magic happens when you air fry them to achieve that perfect crispy texture. The result is a dish that is both nutritious and delectable, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.
Cooking these Brussels sprouts in the air fryer has a way of bringing out their natural sweetness while delivering a satisfying crunch. It’s a dish that combines convenience with gourmet flair—a true reflection of my culinary journey. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking for a tasty snack, these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts will make every bite a delightful experience.
Making Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Directions
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to warm up for about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make sure each sprout is fully coated.
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for optimal cooking. Cook in batches if needed.
Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes. Then, take out the basket and shake it gently to flip the sprouts.
Put the basket back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and have a golden-brown color. For larger sprouts, you might need to extend the cooking time slightly to achieve the desired crispiness.
Storing Suggestion
Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Cooking Tips
For added flavor, you can sprinkle the Brussels sprouts with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of honey just before serving. To ensure even cooking, make sure the Brussels sprouts are evenly sized when halved.
Serving Suggestions
These air-fried Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with a hearty main dish like roasted chicken or grilled steak. They also make a great addition to a holiday spread or a healthy side dish for any meal.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, try substituting with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a different but equally delicious flavor. You can also use avocado oil in place of olive oil for a different taste profile.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, try adding a sprinkle of dried cranberries or chopped pecans to the Brussels sprouts after cooking for a festive twist. In the spring, consider tossing them with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Allergen Information
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and suitable for a vegan diet. Ensure that your balsamic vinegar is gluten-free if you are sensitive to gluten.
FAQ:
How do I make sure my Brussels sprouts turn out crispy?
To achieve crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure they are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer basket and are not overcrowded. Cooking them in batches can help with this.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may not turn out as crispy. Thaw and pat them dry before air frying to remove excess moisture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of honey, or a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking to enhance the flavor.
How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming too bitter?
To reduce bitterness, make sure to remove any outer leaves that are damaged or discolored and avoid overcooking the sprouts.
Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts by halving and seasoning them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What other seasonings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to customize the flavor to your liking.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts halved lengthwise
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Toss well to evenly coat the sprouts.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches to allow for even cooking.
- Air fry the Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes. After the initial cooking time, remove the basket and give it a good shake to turn the sprouts over.
- Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and golden brown. If the sprouts are larger, you may need to add a few extra minutes to achieve the desired crispiness.
