Get Crunchy with Sweet Chili Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts!
Hey there! If you’re like me and can’t resist a good crispy vegetable side dish, then you’re in for a treat with these Sweet Chili Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. They’re super easy to whip up in your air fryer, and the combination of the sweet chili sauce and a hint of spice is absolutely divine. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
First off, let’s talk about why these little green gems are not just delicious, but healthy too! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, K, and fiber. Eating them can support your immune system, promote a healthy gut, and even help with bone health. Plus, they’re low in calories—making them a perfect side dish for those watching their intake. You’ll feel good knowing you’re serving something nutritious!
Fun Variations to Try!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling brave, you can add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños for a fiery touch!
- Garlic Lovers: Use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a deeper flavor profile that will make your taste buds dance.
- Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the sprouts right before serving—it’s a delicious twist!
- Nutty Touch: Toss in some chopped pecans or almonds in the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful crunch.
Your Sweet Chili Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key to getting those Brussels crispy!
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Aim for even sizes so they cook uniformly!
- Season the Sprouts: In a large bowl, mix the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, and sweet chili sauce. Toss until they’re well coated in that tasty sauce!
- Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts: Pop those seasoned beauties into the air fryer basket, laying them in a single layer. It’s alright if they overlap a bit, just don’t cram them in too tightly.
- Cook: Air fry them for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping. They should be golden brown and oh-so-crispy when done!
- Finish with Garnishes: Once they’re done, carefully take the sprouts out. If you’d like, drizzle some lemon juice on top and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for extra flair.
- Serve: Transfer everything to a serving dish, and dig in! Feel free to add more chili flakes if you like it spicy.
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Want extra crispy Brussels sprouts? Make sure they’re not overcrowded in the air fryer. Cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
- If you’re prepping ahead of time, you can toss the Brussels in the seasoning and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking.
- For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but be warned—like most fried food, they’re best fresh!
- Looking for a twist? Serve these with a side of ranch or cilantro-lime dressing for dipping—perfect for those who love a little extra sauce!
Equipment Needed
To make this deliciousness, you’ll need a few handy tools:
- Your trusty air fryer.
- A large mixing bowl for tossing everything together.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the Brussels sprouts.
- A spatula or tongs to help you mix and serve!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly since they tend to release water.
- What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce? You can make a simple glaze with honey, soy sauce, and a little sriracha if you want to replicate that sweet and spicy kick!
- Can I cook these in the oven instead? Absolutely! Toss them on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- How do I store leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results!
- Can I use different veggies? Totally! This recipe works well with cauliflower, zucchini, or even carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Join the Fun!
So, are you ready to give these Sweet Chili Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts a try? I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to share your delicious results on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations and feel free to follow for more fun, healthy, and tasty recipes!
