Prepare to revolutionize your vegetable side dishes with these mind-blowing Garlic and Soy Brussels Sprouts that will make even the most stubborn veggie-haters beg for seconds! Imagine crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with a golden-brown exterior, infused with the rich umami of soy sauce and the bold punch of garlic. This Asian-inspired recipe turns the humble Brussels sprout from a boring side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests wondering how you became such a cooking wizard.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing them thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring even cooking and maximum surface area for caramelization.
- Pat the halved Brussels sprouts completely dry using clean paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves, creating small, uniform pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer across the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan, which could cause steaming instead of roasting. Cook without stirring for 5-7 minutes until the cut sides turn golden brown and develop a crispy caramelized surface.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and toss the Brussels sprouts, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and lightly toasted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour soy sauce over the Brussels sprouts, stirring to coat each piece evenly. The soy sauce will create a savory glaze and enhance the caramelization.
- Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and have a deep, rich color.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the crispy exterior and tender interior to be fully appreciated.
Tips
- Dryness is Key: Always thoroughly pat your Brussels sprouts dry before cooking. Excess moisture prevents proper caramelization and can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Pan Selection Matters: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy non-stick pan to achieve that perfect crispy exterior. The right pan ensures even heat distribution and beautiful browning.
- Single Layer Magic: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook Brussels sprouts in a single layer to guarantee each sprout gets direct heat and develops a crispy, golden surface.
- Timing is Everything: Let the cut side of the sprouts sit undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to develop a deep caramelized crust before stirring.
- Sesame Seeds Optional but Recommended: The sesame seeds add a delightful nutty crunch that elevates the entire dish. Don't skip them if you want that restaurant-quality finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
