Why Make This Recipe
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts are an exciting twist to a traditional vegetable side dish. They bring a delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any meal. If you’re looking for a way to make Brussels sprouts appealing, this recipe is an excellent choice.
Not only are these oven-roasted Brussels sprouts tasty, but they are also easy to prepare. The combination of honey and sriracha adds a unique depth of flavor. This recipe is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Equipment Needed for Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
To prepare Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts, you will need a few basic kitchen tools. Make sure you have the following:
- A sharp knife for cutting the Brussels sprouts.
- A large mixing bowl for tossing the ingredients together.
- A baking tray to roast the sprouts.
- Parchment paper to line the baking tray for easy cleanup.
- A measuring spoon for accuracy.
- A small bowl for mixing the sriracha sauce.
What You Need to Make Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons shallot, sliced very thin
How to Cook Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts Step by Step
First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, line a baking tray with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and to prevent sticking.
Next, rinse the Brussels sprouts in cool water. Trim off the stem end and cut each sprout in half lengthwise. Once the sprouts are halved, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help them roast properly in the oven.
In a large bowl, add the Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything together until the sprouts are well coated with the oil and salt. This step is important as it helps enhance the flavor while roasting.
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts onto the prepared baking tray in a single layer. Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes. The goal is to get a nice caramelization on the outer leaves.
While the Brussels sprouts roast, prepare the sriracha sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining olive oil, sriracha hot sauce, and honey. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference. As you mix, you can also add the thinly sliced shallots and minced garlic to this mixture for extra flavor.
After the initial 15 minutes of roasting, remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven. Take a moment to stir them on the baking tray to ensure even cooking. Pour the sriracha honey sauce over the sprouts, then sprinkle the garlic and shallots on top.
Return the baking tray to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the sauce to caramelize and the garlic and shallots to become fragrant. When the time is up, the Brussels sprouts should be crispy and golden, ready to serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Make Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
To make this delicious recipe, you’ll begin by prepping the Brussels sprouts. After cleaning them, remember to dry them thoroughly. Excess moisture can steam the sprouts instead of roasting them, making them less crispy.
The key to the flavor lies in the sriracha sauce. It balances the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with a sweet and spicy kick. Tossing the sprouts in olive oil and salt before roasting helps to enhance their natural flavor, setting a great base for the additional ingredients.
When mixing the sriracha with honey and oil, make sure everything is well combined. You want each sprout to be evenly coated for the best taste experience. Timing your roasting is crucial, as the initial roast will ensure the sprouts are tender, while the second phase with the sauce adds flavor.
How to Serve Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts can be served as a standalone side dish or as part of a larger meal. Their unique flavor makes them the perfect companion for grilled meats, fish, or even as a component in a grain bowl.
For visual appeal, consider garnishing the dish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. This extra touch not only looks good but adds a burst of freshness.
Serve them hot out of the oven to enjoy their crispy texture fully. They can also be lightly drizzled with extra honey or sriracha for those who like an additional kick.
What to Serve with Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
These flavorful Brussels sprouts pair well with various dishes. They complement roasted chicken, sticky ribs, or a savory fish like salmon. If you are preparing a vegetarian meal, try serving them alongside quinoa or a grain salad.
Consider incorporating them into a taco bar, where the sweet and spicy flavor can elevate your tacos. Additionally, serving them with a creamy dip can balance the spicy kick and provide a contrasting flavor profile.
You can also enjoy them over a bed of rice or mixed greens. The honey sriracha sauce will soak into whatever they are served with, ensuring every bite captures the deliciousness.
How to Store Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. After cooling them down, ensure they are stored properly to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Reheating them may make them lose some crispiness. To get them warm again, it’s best to use an oven or an air fryer to restore that crispy texture. Microwaving can make them soggy, so it’s best avoided if you want to enjoy them as freshly roasted.
Tips to Make Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
To achieve the crispiest Brussels sprouts, make sure they are cut evenly and dried thoroughly after washing. This will allow them to roast nicely without steaming.
Adjust the sriracha level according to your heat preference. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can use less sriracha or even swap it out for another milder sauce.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding other seasonings like pepper or smoked paprika. They can enhance the taste without overpowering the honey and sriracha combination.
Variation
Feel free to customize the recipe! For a more herbal flavor, add some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting. Other variations include adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
You can also swap the honey for maple syrup for a vegan version of this dish. This will give a slightly different sweetness but will maintain the same lovely glaze.
Best Time to Make Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts are great any time of the year, but they are particularly fitting during the fall and winter months. The warm, comforting flavors of honey and sriracha make them perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners.
They work well for meal prep too. Preparing them ahead of time for a busy week will save you time and ensure you have a delicious side dish available when needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the baking tray. Overcrowding can cause the sprouts to steam rather than roast, preventing them from getting crispy. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer for best results.
Another mistake is not drying the Brussels sprouts thoroughly after washing. Moisture can lead to soggy sprouts, so patting them dry is crucial.
Lastly, be cautious about the amount of sriracha used. Taste while mixing the sauce to ensure it suits your personal heat preference.
Nutritional Notes
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also nutritious. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins C and K, and they provide fiber. The addition of honey gives a natural sweetness while sriracha adds a hint of spice.
This dish can fit well into a balanced meal, providing a variety of nutrients essential for a healthy diet. The use of olive oil adds healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and season the Brussels sprouts ahead of time. However, it’s best to roast them just before serving for the perfect texture.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts give the best results, you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since they might need a little longer.
What if I want a milder flavor?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a milder sauce. You can also add more honey to sweeten the dish while lowering the spice.
Conclusion
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful balance of flavors that can bring excitement to any meal. This dish proves that vegetables can be just as appealing as any main course. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find that these sprouts are not only delicious but also a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Give them a try, and you might just discover your new favorite vegetable dish!
