Brussels sprouts, the oft-maligned vegetable of our childhoods, get a spicy and tantalizing makeover in this Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight recipe. This dish takes the humble sprouts to new culinary heights, infusing them with the rich flavours of Kung Pao sauce, and a delightful crunch from roasted peanuts. It's a fusion of East meets West that's sure to delight your taste buds!
Most ingredients should be readily available in your local supermarket, but you might have to look a bit harder for a couple. Toasted sesame oil and reduced-sodium tamari (a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce) can usually be found in the Asian aisle. If you're not finding them there, try a health food store or an Asian market.
List of Ingredients for Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight
Brussels sprouts: These petite cabbages are the hero of the dish, delivering a hearty texture and a subtle, earthy flavour.
Olive oil: Used for roasting the sprouts, it adds a touch of richness.
Reduced-sodium tamari: This soy sauce alternative adds depth to the Kung Pao sauce, without the gluten.
Honey: Adds a sweet counterpoint to the spicy and salty elements in the sauce.
Rice vinegar: Gives the sauce a tangy kick.
Toasted sesame oil: Brings a distinctive nutty flavour to the sauce.
Sriracha: Adds the requisite heat to the Kung Pao sauce.
Garlic: Always a good idea, it adds an aromatic base to the sauce.
Roasted peanuts: These add a lovely crunch and pair surprisingly well with Brussels sprouts.
Green onion: Brings a fresh, crisp element to the final dish.
Cilantro leaves: Optional, but recommended for a touch of fresh herby goodness.
Red pepper flakes: For an extra heat hit, if you dare.
One reader, Hildagarde Dowdy says:
This kung pao brussels sprouts recipe is a game-changer! The sprouts are perfectly roasted and the kung pao sauce is a burst of flavor. The combination of crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro takes it to another level. It's a delightful twist on a classic dish that I can't get enough of!
Techniques Required for Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight Recipe
How to roast brussels sprouts: Trim the nubby ends and any discolored leaves off the brussels sprouts, then cut the sprouts in half lengthwise. Toss them with olive oil until coated with a light, even layer of oil, then arrange them in an even layer, flat sides down, and roast for 25 to 30 minutes at 400 degrees F, tossing halfway, until they are tender and deeply caramelized on the edges.
How to prepare kung pao sauce: In a small saucepan, combine reduced-sodium tamari, honey, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sriracha, and garlic. Whisk until combined, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
How to garnish with peanuts, green onion, and cilantro: Once the roasted brussels sprouts are cooked and tossed with the kung pao sauce, add the roasted peanuts, chopped green onion, and fresh cilantro leaves. Toss again to incorporate the garnishes.
How To Make Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
This vegetarian rendition of the kung pao chicken uses Brussels sprouts for an additional earthy and umami flavor. It’s a little spicy but highly savory.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
- 2lbsbrussels sprouts
- 2tbspolive oil
For Kung Pao Sauce:
- 2tbspreduced-sodium tamari,or soy sauce
- 2tbsphoney,or maple syrup
- 1tbsprice vinegar
- 2tsptoasted sesame oil
- 2tspsriracha,taste
- 2clovesgarlic,pressed or minced
For Garnishes:
- ⅓cuproasted peanuts,either salted or unsalted
- ⅓cupchopped green onion,both green and white parts, about 3 green onions
- 2tbspfresh cilantro leaves,chopped, optional
- red pepper flakes,optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
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Trim the nubby ends and any discolored leaves off the Brussels sprouts, then cut the sprouts in half lengthwise.
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Transfer the sprouts to a large, rimmed baking sheet then toss them with olive oil, until coated with a light, even layer of oil.
-
Arrange the sprouts in an even layer, flat sides down, and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing halfway, until they are tender and deeply caramelized on the edges.
-
Meanwhile, to prepare the sauce: In your smallest saucepan, add the tamari or soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon sriracha, and garlic. Whisk until combined, then taste and adjust.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
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Transfer the roasted sprouts to a medium serving bowl. Pour the sauce over the sprouts and toss to coat.
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Add the peanuts, green onion and optional cilantro and toss again. Serve immediately, with red pepper flakes sprinkled on top.
Nutrition
- Calories: 289.07kcal
- Fat: 15.71g
- Saturated Fat: 2.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.85g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.90g
- Carbohydrates: 32.54g
- Fiber: 10.01g
- Sugar: 14.55g
- Protein: 12.04g
- Sodium: 564.08mg
- Calcium: 118.22mg
- Potassium: 1024.31mg
- Iron: 4.19mg
- Vitamin A: 92.03µg
- Vitamin C: 195.00mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight
When roasting brussels sprouts, it's important to place them cut side down on the baking sheet. This allows the flat surface to come into direct contact with the heat, resulting in a beautifully caramelized and crispy exterior. Also, remember to toss them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Brussels Sprouts Delight
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pan for easy cleanup.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes and save time on guesswork.
Batch cooking: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and tools.
Prep shortcuts: Utilize pre-cut or pre-washed ingredients to cut down on prep time.
Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to maximize efficiency by multitasking when possible.
Substitute Ingredients For Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Recipe
brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and can hold up well when roasted, providing a delicious alternative to brussels sprouts.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
reduced-sodium tamari - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos offer a similar umami flavor and can be used as a gluten-free alternative to tamari.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and depth of flavor similar to honey, making it a great substitute in the kung pao sauce.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can add a tangy acidity similar to rice vinegar, enhancing the flavor of the kung pao sauce.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can impart a nutty flavor and aroma, complementing the other ingredients in the kung pao sauce.
sriracha - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce offers a spicy kick and garlicky flavor, serving as an excellent alternative to sriracha in the kung pao sauce.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the kung pao sauce.
roasted peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews offer a creamy texture and rich flavor, making them a delicious replacement for roasted peanuts in this dish.
green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, serving as a great substitute for green onions in the garnish.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves can add a fragrant, herbaceous note to the dish, replacing the cilantro in the garnish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can provide heat and a deeper flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative to red pepper flakes in this recipe.
Presentation Tips for Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight
Elevate the plating: Arrange the roasted brussels sprouts in a circular pattern on a large, white plate, ensuring each sprout is visible and perfectly caramelized.
Incorporate color contrast: Sprinkle vibrant, chopped green onions and fresh cilantro leaves over the brussels sprouts to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Add texture with garnishes: Generously scatter roasted peanuts around the plate to provide a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the dish.
Create a harmonious balance: Drizzle the kung pao sauce over the brussels sprouts, ensuring it cascades elegantly and evenly coats each sprout, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Emphasize visual appeal: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add a touch of heat and a visually striking element to the presentation.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Brussels Sprouts Delight
- Let the kung pao brussels sprouts cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, simply place the desired amount of brussels sprouts in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and heated through.
- If you want to freeze the kung pao brussels sprouts, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen brussels sprouts, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the frozen sprouts on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time if reheating from frozen.
- Note: The texture of the brussels sprouts may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but they will still be delicious and flavorful. The peanuts and green onions may lose some of their crunch, so you might want to add fresh garnishes when serving reheated leftovers.
How To Reheat Leftover Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
To reheat leftover kung pao brussels sprouts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps to retain the texture and flavor of the roasted brussels sprouts.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the kung pao brussels sprouts in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover sprouts and stir occasionally until they are heated through and slightly crispy, about 3-5 minutes. This method is ideal if you want to add extra crispiness to the sprouts.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the kung pao brussels sprouts in the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the sprouts halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven or stovetop reheating.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the kung pao brussels sprouts before serving. If the flavors have mellowed, you can add a splash of soy sauce, rice vinegar, or sriracha to brighten up the dish. You can also sprinkle some fresh chopped green onions, cilantro, or roasted peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Interesting Trivia About Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which also includes kale, cauliflower, and broccoli.
Is Making Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight at Home Cost-Effective?
This kung pao brussels sprouts delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, brussels sprouts, is affordable and packed with nutrients. The additional components, such as tamari, honey, and peanuts, are also reasonably priced and can be used in various other dishes. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers a delightful and healthy twist to a classic dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a budget-friendly and flavorful option for a family meal.
Is Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight Recipe Healthy?
This kung pao brussels sprouts recipe is a healthier twist on a classic Chinese dish. Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. The recipe uses a moderate amount of healthy fats from olive oil and peanuts, which provide beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The sauce is made with reduced-sodium tamari, which helps control sodium intake, and the sweetness comes from a small amount of honey, a natural sweetener.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce to lower the overall sugar content
- Use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of tamari to further reduce the sodium content
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding other nutrient-dense options like red bell peppers or carrots
- Serve the dish with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Use a smaller amount of peanuts or replace them with a lower-calorie option like chopped almonds to reduce the overall calorie count
By making these small adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious flavor profile. The recipe showcases how simple it can be to create a satisfying, plant-based meal that incorporates a variety of flavors and textures. Encouraging people to experiment with healthier versions of their favorite takeout dishes is a great way to promote a more balanced and nutritious diet.
Editor's Opinion on Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Delight Recipe
The kung pao brussels sprouts delight recipe is a delightful twist on the classic kung pao dish. The roasted brussels sprouts are perfectly caramelized and provide a satisfying crunch, while the kung pao sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The addition of peanuts, green onions, and cilantro adds a wonderful texture and freshness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a creative and delicious way to enjoy brussels sprouts, and it's sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
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Why trust this Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic kung pao dish, transforming it into a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option. The roasted brussels sprouts provide a hearty and nutritious base, while the homemade kung pao sauce, made with reduced-sodium tamari, honey, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil, adds a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Topped with crunchy roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro leaves, and zesty red pepper flakes, this dish promises to excite your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.
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