Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish Recipe
If you’re looking to turn Brussels sprouts skeptics into super fans, you absolutely have to try Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish. This recipe transforms humble sprouts into little flavor bombs—crispy, caramelized, and tossed in a punchy sweet chili glaze that’s equal parts tangy, spicy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving these up as a standout side, piling them onto a grain bowl, or just snacking straight off the pan (guilty!), this dish delivers a bold upgrade to classic roasted Brussels sprouts and will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish is how approachable the ingredient list is. Each component brings something essential—crispness, heat, umami, or color—to make these sprouts truly memorable. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why:
- Brussels sprouts: Choose bright, firm sprouts for maximum freshness and that irresistible roasted crunch.
- Olive oil: Helps the sprouts get beautifully crisp and golden in the oven.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that pairs perfectly with the sweet chili sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce: The star of the show—delivers that sweet, tangy, and spicy glaze that makes these Brussels sprouts unforgettable.
- Soy sauce: Lends a deep, savory umami note to balance the sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: Brightens the glaze with a gentle tang and keeps the flavors lively.
- Garlic powder: Brings a mellow, aromatic kick to the sauce without overpowering the sprouts.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little extra heat, these add a wonderful spicy lift.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Add nutty crunch and a finishing touch that looks as delicious as it tastes.
- Green onions (for garnish): Fresh, zippy, and bright—these tie the whole dish together visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This high heat is key for getting those irresistible crispy edges, and parchment makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven heats, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts so they roast evenly and soak up every bit of flavor.
Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts
In a big bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every sprout is glistening—this helps them roast up golden and delicious. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer, cut side down, on your prepared baking sheet for maximum caramelization.
Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Slide your tray into the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the sprouts halfway through. You’re looking for deep golden color and crispy, slightly charred edges—that’s where all the flavor lives! Don’t rush this step; a little extra color means extra crunch.
Step 4: Mix Up the Sweet Chili Sauce
While your Brussels sprouts work their magic in the oven, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This sauce is where Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish gets its signature flavor—sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy all at once!
Step 5: Toss and Finish Roasting
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and beautifully crisp, transfer them to a bowl and pour the sauce over. Toss until every sprout is generously coated, then return them to the baking sheet. Pop them back in the oven for another 5 minutes so the sauce can caramelize and cling to each bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the sprouts out of the oven, sprinkle them with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and serve them warm. These simple garnishes add crunch, color, and a little pop of freshness, making this dish a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish
Garnishes
A final flourish of sesame seeds and green onions is all you need, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Try a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra crunch or a drizzle of sriracha for more heat. A quick squeeze of lime over the top right before serving can also take the flavors up a notch.
Side Dishes
These sprouts play well with so many dishes! Serve them alongside jasmine rice, quinoa, or soba noodles for a hearty vegan meal. They’re also perfect with grilled chicken or tofu, or as a zesty upgrade to your next grain bowl. Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish can even steal the spotlight on a holiday table.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile these glossy, sticky sprouts into lettuce cups, tuck them into wraps with a little avocado, or even toss them over a mixed green salad for a punchy lunch. You can also skewer them on toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer—just watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as they rest, making Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish just as crave-worthy the next day.
Freezing
While these sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Spread cooled sprouts on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to a month, though the texture will soften a bit after thawing.
Reheating
To recapture that crispy exterior, reheat the sprouts in a hot oven (400°F) for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisped. A quick toss in a skillet works well, too. The microwave is handy in a pinch, but the sprouts will be softer.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and make the sauce in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss with the glaze and finish under the broiler or in a hot oven for a few minutes to re-crisp and caramelize.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s easy to keep gluten-free if you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. All other ingredients in Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish should be naturally gluten-free.
How spicy are these Brussels sprouts?
The sweetness of the chili sauce balances the heat, so it’s mild to medium as written. If you prefer a fiery kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
For best results, fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal, but you can use frozen in a pinch. Thaw and pat them dry as much as possible, and expect a softer (but still flavorful) result.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish are fantastic chopped into grain bowls, tossed with pasta, or even stuffed into pita with a dollop of hummus for a tasty lunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a surefire way to make Brussels sprouts the most exciting dish on the table, Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish is your ticket. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making a double batch next time!
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Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts: A Deliciously Spicy Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts offer a deliciously spicy and sweet twist on a classic vegetable side dish. Roasted to crispy perfection and coated in a flavorful blend of sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, this Asian-inspired vegan recipe makes a perfect, healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasoning & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare Brussels sprouts: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts: Arrange the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet cut side down in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are browned and crispy on the edges.
- Make the sauce: While roasting, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl, stirring well to blend all flavors.
- Toss with sauce and finish roasting: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a bowl and toss them thoroughly with the prepared sauce until fully coated. Return them to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, roast the Brussels sprouts on a preheated pan instead of a baking sheet.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or grilled proteins for a complete meal.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 batch (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
