Looking for a tasty side dish that will wow your guests? Try my Air Fryer Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts! This dish marries sweet maple with savory sprouts, making them irresistible. I’ll guide you through simple ingredients and easy steps. Plus, you’ll pick up tips to get the best texture and flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients Required
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (for garnish)
Quantity Measurements
The recipe calls for 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. This amount serves about four people. You can adjust the amount based on how many servings you need. Each ingredient plays a key role in making the dish tasty.
- Olive oil helps the sprouts crisp up.
- Maple syrup adds sweetness and a lovely glaze.
- Garlic powder gives a delicious kick.
- Salt and pepper bring out the flavors.
- Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat, but they are optional.
- Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish.
- Walnuts provide crunch and flavor.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutes
If you want to mix things up, you can try different add-ins. Here are a few ideas:
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweet flavor.
- Try smoked paprika instead of garlic powder for a smoky taste.
- Add chopped pecans if you prefer them over walnuts.
- For a vegan option, ensure the maple syrup is pure and check your balsamic vinegar for additives.
These simple swaps can make your dish unique while keeping the base flavors intact.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Rinse them under cool water. Trim the ends and cut each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly. Next, grab a large bowl. Add the halved sprouts to the bowl. Now, pour in the olive oil and maple syrup. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Mix everything well. You want each sprout to be coated nicely.
Air Frying Process
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Let it heat for about 5 minutes. This step is key for crispiness. Now, place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they lie flat in a single layer. If you have a lot, you might need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket. This helps them cook evenly. When they are done, the sprouts should be crispy outside and tender inside.
Finishing Touches
After air frying, take the sprouts out. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over them. Gently toss to mix. This adds a nice tangy flavor. To finish, serve them hot. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for crunch. If you want, add a little extra maple syrup for sweetness. Enjoy your tasty side dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For crispy Brussels sprouts, start with fresh ones. Choose firm sprouts, free of blemishes. Halve them for even cooking. The olive oil helps create a great crunch. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through. This step ensures they cook evenly.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, use pure maple syrup. It gives a sweet touch that pairs well with sprouts. Garlic powder adds depth without overpowering. For a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the dish. Finish with walnuts for crunch and taste.
Cooking Suggestions for Different Air Fryer Models
Air fryers can vary in size and power. If your sprouts cook too fast, lower the temperature to 350°F. For larger batches, cook in waves. Keep the first batch warm in the oven. Always check for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be tender inside and crispy outside.
Variations
Sweet and Savory Additions
You can make this dish even better by adding some sweet and savory flavors. Try mixing in some cooked bacon or pancetta. Their salty crunch pairs well with the sweetness of the maple glaze. You can also add dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of sweetness. These fruits will add color and a chewy texture that makes each bite exciting.
Alternative Glazes
If you’re looking for something different, switch up the glaze. You can use honey instead of maple syrup for a floral sweetness. A soy sauce-based glaze adds a savory depth. Just mix soy sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar. You can also try a spicy sriracha glaze. Just mix sriracha with olive oil and a bit of maple syrup.
Vegetable Substitutes for Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are great, but you can use other veggies too. Cauliflower florets work well and have a mild flavor. Broccoli is another good choice and adds a nice green color. Even green beans can be air-fried with the same glaze. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down first. This helps keep them crispy. If you use a glass container, it helps avoid stains from the maple syrup.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use your air fryer at 350°F (175°C). Air fry for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them crisp. You can also use a microwave, but they may get a bit soggy. If using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over them. This helps retain some moisture.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze Brussels sprouts if needed. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in your air fryer for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. They work well in the air fryer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen sprouts may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Check for tenderness and crispiness before serving.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
Air Fryer Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts pair well with many dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Roasted pork tenderloin
- Quinoa or rice bowls
- A fresh green salad
The sweetness of the glaze complements savory dishes nicely.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
To make the glaze thicker, try these tips:
- Cook the maple syrup longer on low heat. This will reduce it and thicken the syrup.
- Add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water. This will help thicken the glaze when added.
- Use less olive oil in your mix. This will create a more concentrated glaze.
These methods help you achieve the desired consistency for your Brussels sprouts.
In this blog post, we covered how to make Air Fryer Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts. We started with essential ingredients and measurements, then moved to easy step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for perfect texture and flavor upgrades, along with tasty variations. Lastly, I discussed how to store and reheat your dish.
Remember, the right ingredients and methods can transform your cooking. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!
