Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts: a symphony of textures where earthy meets unbelievably crunchy, creating a flavor explosion that will redefine your love for this misunderstood veggie. Get ready to transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a culinary masterpiece!

These little green cabbages are about to undergo a delicious makeover! Prepare for a journey from bland to brilliant as we unveil the secret to achieving perfectly golden, incredibly flavorful, and utterly irresistible Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts.

Here’s why you will adore this recipe:

• Effortlessly elevate your weeknight dinner with a recipe that requires minimal prep time and yields maximum flavor.
• Experience a delightful combination of textures, from the crispy exterior to the tender interior, that will tantalize your taste buds.
• These Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a show-stopping side dish for any occasion.
• Adapt this recipe to your liking by experimenting with different seasonings and toppings to create a unique and personalized dish.

Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Brussels Sprouts Choose sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that are yellowing or have wilted leaves.

Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits. It helps the Brussels sprouts get nice and crispy.

Garlic Powder Adds a savory depth to the Brussels sprouts. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

Onion Powder Complements the garlic powder and enhances the overall savory flavor profile.

Salt Enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts. Use sea salt or kosher salt for best results.

Black Pepper Adds a touch of spice and complexity to the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.

Lemon Juice A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a tangy finish.

Balsamic Glaze Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, complementing the savory flavors perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim off the ends. Remove any yellow or wilted outer leaves. Halve the larger sprouts so they are all roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Boil the Brussels Sprouts

Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a pot of boiling, salted water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still firm. Drain them well and let them steam dry for a few minutes. This step helps to pre-cook the sprouts and soften them for smashing.

Step 3: Smash the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the boiled Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet, cut-side up. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each sprout until flattened. Be careful not to completely crush them.

Step 4: Season and Roast

Drizzle the smashed Brussels sprouts with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that the sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sprouts and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy goodness.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve culinary greatness with this recipe, strategically time your steps. Roast the Brussels sprouts while you prepare any accompanying sauce. This way, everything finishes together, hot and ready to impress even the pickiest eaters at the table.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to make it your own! Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or swapping the balsamic glaze for a lemon-herb vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless; let your taste buds guide you.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use an air fryer for maximum crispness.

Here are some tips for Brussels sprouts perfection:

• For the ultimate **Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts**, ensure they are completely dry before roasting. Excess moisture will result in steaming, not crisping.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give each sprout enough space to brown properly. Use two baking sheets if necessary.

• A preheated pan is your best friend. Place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats to ensure maximum crispiness from the start.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I once served these to my veggie-averse cousin, and he devoured them! He couldn’t believe they were Brussels sprouts. It was a proud “chef” moment, I tell you!

Conclusion for Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts :

Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are not just a side dish; they’re an experience! By following these tips, you’ll transform humble sprouts into a delightful dish that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Remember to thoroughly dry your sprouts, smash them effectively, and roast them at high heat for maximum crispiness. Experiment with various seasonings to create your own signature flavor. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness of smashed sprouts!

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FAQs :

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts will give you the best, crispiest results, you can use frozen in a pinch. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very, very dry before roasting. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. You might also find the texture slightly softer compared to fresh ones, but the flavor will still be fantastic. Think of it as a little shortcut when you’re short on time. Remember to adjust the roasting time accordingly – they might need a little less time to become tender.

What’s the best way to smash Brussels sprouts effectively?

Smashing Brussels sprouts is surprisingly therapeutic! The key is to use a flat-bottomed object like a measuring cup, potato masher, or even the bottom of a sturdy glass. Apply gentle but firm pressure to flatten each sprout. Don’t Hulk-smash them; we want them flattened, not pulverized! Aim for about ½ inch thickness. This will maximize the surface area that gets beautifully caramelized and gives you those irresistible crispy edges in every single bite.

How do I get my Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

Ah, the million-dollar question! The secret lies in a few things: high heat, a good amount of olive oil, and not overcrowding the pan. Make sure your oven is preheated to a roaring 400°F (200°C). Give the sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet so they can roast, not steam. And don’t be shy with the oil – it helps them get that golden-brown, crunchy exterior we all crave. Consider using a sheet pan instead of a baking dish.

What are some good seasoning variations for Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Beyond salt and pepper, the possibilities are endless! For a savory twist, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will give them a little kick. Or go sweet and savory with a drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze after roasting. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor if you want a vegan option. Experiment and find your perfect flavor combination – you might just surprise yourself!