Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Oh, Brussels sprouts, those tiny cabbages that once struck fear into the hearts of children everywhere! But hold on, folks, because we’re about to flip the script. Get ready for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, a symphony of sweet, tangy, and utterly addictive flavors that will convert even the most adamant sprout-hater.

These aren’t your grandma’s boiled-to-oblivion Brussels sprouts. This recipe transforms them into crispy, caramelized morsels of goodness. With a sticky honey balsamic glaze, they offer a delicious twist that’s perfect as a side dish or even a snack. Prepare for a taste sensation.

Here’s why you’ll be obsessed with these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts:

• Effortless to whip up, requiring minimal prep time and simple steps for a hassle-free cooking experience.
• Boasting a delectable harmony of sweet honey, tangy balsamic, and savory roasted flavors, pleasing every palate.
• Their appealing golden-brown hue and glossy glaze make them a stunning addition to any dinner table or buffet spread.
• Perfect as a side with chicken or beef or enjoy it as a vegetarian main. They can be easily paired with many meals.

Ingredients for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

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

Brussels Sprouts Choose sprouts that are firm, bright green, and similar in size for even cooking. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter.

Olive Oil Adds richness and helps the Brussels sprouts to crisp up beautifully in the oven. Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Balsamic Vinegar Provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the honey and adds depth to the glaze. Use a good quality balsamic for the best flavor.

Honey The honey not only adds sweetness but also helps the glaze to thicken and stick to the Brussels sprouts.

Garlic Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent and savory note that complements the other flavors in the glaze.

Salt and Pepper Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the honey and tanginess of the balsamic vinegar.

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

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the Brussels sprouts and trim off the ends. Remove any yellowed or loose outer leaves. Cut the larger sprouts in half and leave the smaller ones whole, so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Toss with Oil and Seasoning

In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated for optimal crisping. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. They should be tender and slightly browned.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Balsamic Glaze

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Glaze the Roasted Sprouts

Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them back to the bowl. Pour the honey balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts and toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Final Roast

Return the glazed Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened and the sprouts are beautifully caramelized and crispy. Serve immediately as a side dish with chicken, beef, or turkey.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, roast them at a high temperature. While they roast, whisk together the honey balsamic glaze. This ensures the sprouts are perfectly crisp and the glaze is warm and ready to coat them straight out of the oven.

Add Your Touch

Want to get adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or substitute maple syrup for honey. Toasted pecans or walnuts can bring another layer of flavor and texture. Experiment and make it your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy. Enjoy within 3 days.

Here are some expert tips to elevate your Brussels sprouts game:

• For maximum crispiness, ensure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting; moisture is the enemy!
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; give those little sprouts room to breathe and caramelize properly, or roast in batches.
• Taste and adjust the glaze as you go; balance the sweetness and acidity to your liking for the perfect flavor profile.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

The first time I made these, my usually veggie-averse brother devoured them. He said, and I quote, “These are so good, I might actually start liking Brussels sprouts!”. It was a victory for vegetables everywhere.

Conclusion for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts aren’t just a side dish; they’re a flavor explosion. Remember high heat is your friend for maximum crispiness. Don’t be afraid to get creative with additions like nuts or a touch of spice. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the slightly bitter sprouts, creating a truly addictive combination. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again. So go ahead, give them a try and prepare to be amazed!

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FAQs

Can I make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Well, you *could*, but let’s be honest, are you trying to sabotage your own deliciousness? They are at their absolute peak right after roasting. The crispiness? Gone. The vibrant flavor? Diminished. If you absolutely *must*, roast them slightly under, then re-crisp in a hot oven right before serving. But really, fresh is best! Trust me, these are so good, you won’t want to make them ahead anyway. They disappear faster than free samples at a grocery store. Plan to make them right before you eat!

What’s the best way to get Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

Ah, the million-dollar question! The secret weapon is heat. High heat! Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of crisp. Give them space to breathe and get beautifully browned. Also, make sure they are super dry before roasting. Water is the enemy of crispiness. Toss them generously with oil, that balsamic glaze is key for a sticky-sweet finish! If your oven has a convection setting, use it! It helps circulate the hot air and get those sprouts perfectly golden and irresistible.

Can I substitute other vegetables in this Crispy Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe?

Okay, let’s talk substitutions. While Brussels sprouts are the star of this show, you *could* experiment. Broccoli florets would work, but they’ll cook faster. Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips could also be delicious, but you might need to adjust the cooking time. Just remember to cut everything into similar sizes so they cook evenly. But honestly, nothing quite captures the magic of caramelized Brussels sprouts. So stick to them for the best results in creating flavorful Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

Are there any variations to Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts that I can try?

Oh, absolutely! Get creative! Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. You could even toss them with cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier side dish. And if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of tahini sauce would be divine. The possibilities are endless! Just remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Cooking is all about experimentation and having fun in the kitchen.