Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts Recipe for Veggie Lovers

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when cooked properly, they can be a delicious and versatile vegetable. One of the best ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts is by frying them until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This method brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful crunch that even those who are skeptical of Brussels sprouts will love. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make perfectly crispy fried Brussels sprouts, and you’ll discover how a few simple ingredients can transform these tiny cabbages into a mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients for Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Optional Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional Toppings:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Balsamic glaze
• Toasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)

How to Make Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim and Halve the Sprouts: Start by trimming the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
2. Wash and Dry: Rinse the halved Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensuring the Brussels sprouts are dry is crucial for achieving a crispy texture when frying.

Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts

1. Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Coat with Oil and Spices: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over them. Toss the Brussels sprouts until they are well coated with the oil and spices.

Step 3: Fry the Brussels Sprouts

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1/4 cup of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of Brussels sprout into it; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Brussels Sprouts: Carefully add the Brussels sprouts to the hot oil in a single layer, cut side down. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cut sides are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the sprouts and fry the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to fry the Brussels sprouts in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Drain and Season: Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with a little more salt while they are still hot.

Step 4: Prepare the Optional Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust the seasoning to taste. This sauce adds a tangy and sweet contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish the Brussels Sprouts: Transfer the fried Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and toasted nuts. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the sprouts beautifully.
2. Serve with Sauce: Serve the crispy fried Brussels sprouts immediately, with the optional dipping sauce on the side. These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, while they are still hot and crispy.

About the Main Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts:

Brussels sprouts are a member of the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. These small, leafy green buds are packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. When cooked properly, Brussels sprouts have a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Frying Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their flavor and creating a delightful crispiness.

Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil:

Choosing the right oil for frying is essential to achieve the perfect texture for your Brussels sprouts. Olive oil adds a subtle, fruity flavor, while vegetable oil is neutral and lets the natural taste of the Brussels sprouts shine. Both oils have a high enough smoke point for frying and help to create a golden, crispy exterior.

Seasonings:

The combination of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika adds a balanced flavor profile to the Brussels sprouts. Salt enhances the natural taste of the sprouts, while black pepper adds a hint of heat. Garlic powder contributes a savory depth, and smoked paprika imparts a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the caramelized Brussels sprouts.

Optional Sauce:

The optional sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper provides a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts. Mayonnaise forms a creamy base, while Dijon mustard adds a sharp tang. Honey brings sweetness, lemon juice adds brightness, and cayenne pepper introduces a bit of heat.

Optional Toppings:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Chopped fresh parsley provides a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, add crunch and nuttiness, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze offers a sweet and tangy finish that pairs perfectly with the fried Brussels sprouts.

Crispy fried Brussels sprouts are a delicious and versatile side dish that can turn even the most skeptical eaters into fans. By following this recipe, you can achieve perfectly fried Brussels sprouts with a crunchy exterior and tender interior. The combination of simple seasonings and the option to add a tangy dipping sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these crispy fried Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy this delightful dish as a way to elevate your vegetable game and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.