Looking for a side dish that packs a flavorful punch? You’ve found it! This Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts recipe is simple yet delicious. I’ll guide you step-by-step, from prepping the sprouts to drizzling on that sweet, spicy glaze. Whether you’re an expert cook or just starting out, this dish will impress your guests and elevate your dinner table. Let’s dive in and make something tasty together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
To make hot honey Brussels sprouts, you need simple items. Start with one pound of Brussels sprouts. Halve each sprout to help them cook evenly. Next, gather three tablespoons of olive oil. This oil adds flavor and helps the sprouts brown.
You also need one teaspoon of salt to enhance the taste. Add half a teaspoon of black pepper to give it a bit of heat. For more flavor, use one teaspoon of garlic powder and half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. These spices round out the taste.
Now, let’s make the hot honey glaze. You need a quarter cup of honey for sweetness. If you enjoy spice, add one tablespoon of red pepper flakes. Adjust this amount to fit your heat level. Finally, use two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. This will balance the sweet and spicy notes.
For a fresh touch, chop some parsley to garnish the dish. This adds color and a hint of brightness. With these ingredients, you will create a dish that is both sweet and spicy, perfect for any meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare Brussels sprouts by halving them.
Seasoning and Roasting
First, I mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl. This blend gives the sprouts a nice flavor. Then, I spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly. I place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through cooking, I stir the sprouts for even browning. I want them to be golden-brown and crispy.
Making the Hot Honey Drizzle
While the sprouts roast, I prepare the hot honey drizzle. I combine honey, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat. I stir this mix for 2 to 3 minutes until it is well combined and warmed. This step makes the sauce flavorful and ready to coat the sprouts.
Final Assembly
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, I take them out of the oven. I immediately drizzle the hot honey glaze over the roasted sprouts. I toss them gently to coat each piece. To finish, I transfer the glazed sprouts to a serving platter and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Tricks
Best Roasting Practices
To get the best crispness from your Brussels sprouts, follow these tips:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the sprouts cook evenly.
– Spread the sprouts out on the baking sheet. Give them space. This allows hot air to flow and makes them crispy.
– Stir halfway through the cooking time. This helps them brown nicely on all sides.
Flavor Enhancements
Adjusting the spice level is simple. Here’s how:
– For less heat, use fewer red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste as you go.
– If you love spice, feel free to add more flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
To keep the flavors bright, serve these sprouts warm. They taste best right after cooking.
Presentation Tips
Serving your Brussels sprouts well can make a big difference. Try these ideas:
– Use a vibrant platter or a wooden board for a rustic look.
– Sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color.
– Garnish with fresh parsley. This adds a nice touch and a burst of freshness.
These simple tricks will elevate your dish and impress your guests!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch the sweetener in this recipe. Try maple syrup or agave instead of honey. They offer unique flavors that complement the sprouts well. Each option adds a different depth of sweetness, so feel free to experiment.
You can also add other veggies to this dish. Asparagus or carrots pair nicely with Brussels sprouts. Just cut them to a similar size. This way, they cook evenly and get that nice roasted flavor.
Adjusting Flavor Profiles
Want to brighten the flavor? Add some citrus zest. Lemon or orange zest will bring a fresh twist. Just sprinkle it over the hot honey glaze before serving.
You can also play with spices to change the flavor. Adding cumin or chili powder can give it a nice, warm kick. The key is to taste as you go, so make it just right for you.
Storage Information
Short-term Storage
To store leftover Brussels sprouts, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This helps keep them fresh for up to three days in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat without losing crispness, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. In an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 to 7 minutes.
To reinvigorate the flavors, drizzle a little olive oil over the sprouts before reheating. You can also sprinkle a bit more red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for extra flavor. This adds a nice touch and keeps them exciting!
FAQs
How can I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?
To reduce bitterness, try these tips:
– Trim the ends: Cut off the tough stem.
– Soak in water: Soak them in salted water for 15 minutes.
– Roast them: Roasting brings out sweetness. The high heat caramelizes the sprouts.
– Add sweetness: Use honey or maple syrup to balance the flavor.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, fresh sprouts taste better. If using frozen:
– Thaw them first: Let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
– Drain excess water: Pat them dry to avoid sogginess.
– Roast longer: Frozen sprouts may need extra roasting time to crisp up.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts?
Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts pair well with many dishes:
– Roasted chicken: The sweetness complements savory chicken.
– Grilled fish: The heat and honey balance the fish’s flavor.
– Quinoa salad: A light salad adds freshness to the meal.
– Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes contrast the sprouts’ crunch.
Can I prepare the hot honey sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce ahead of time. Here’s how:
– Store in a jar: Keep it in an airtight jar in the fridge.
– Reheat gently: Warm it slowly in a saucepan before using.
– Use within a week: The sauce stays fresh for up to one week.
This recipe for Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts is both simple and delicious. You learned how to roast Brussels sprouts with spices and create a sweet, spicy glaze. Remember to space the sprouts on the baking sheet for crispiness. You can also try different ingredients or flavors. Whether you serve this dish at a party or enjoy it for dinner, it will impress everyone. Enjoy your cooking!
