Looking for a quick and tasty veggie dish? You’ve found it! My Honey Garlic Brussel Sprout Skillet is packed with flavor and easy to make. Perfectly sautéed Brussels sprouts mixed with a sweet and savory sauce will make your taste buds dance. This recipe fits well with almost any meal or can stand on its own. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a true delight!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
First, let’s talk about the main ingredients. Brussels sprouts are the star here. They bring a nutty flavor and great texture. Halving them helps them cook evenly. Next, we have olive oil. This adds richness and helps the sprouts brown nicely. Lastly, garlic brings an aromatic kick to the dish. Minced garlic cooks quickly, adding a burst of flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Now, let’s dive into the sauce ingredients. Honey is the main player. It adds sweetness and a beautiful glaze. Soy sauce brings a salty depth that balances the honey. Finally, apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note. This combination creates a sticky, flavorful sauce that clings to the sprouts.
Garnishes and Seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, sliced
For garnishes, salt and pepper are essential. They enhance all the flavors. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. They give a nice kick. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and visual appeal. Lastly, sliced green onions provide fresh brightness. They make your dish not just tasty, but pretty too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add three tablespoons of olive oil. Let the oil warm for about one minute. This step is key for a great sear.
Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
Next, take one pound of Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Place them in the skillet cut side down. Season with salt and pepper. Cook them undisturbed for five to seven minutes. You want them to turn a nice golden brown color on one side.
Add Garlic and Sauce
After seven minutes, it’s time to add four minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Stir well and let it cook for one to two minutes. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt. In a small bowl, mix together one fourth cup of honey, one tablespoon of soy sauce, and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Pour this sauce over the Brussels sprouts.
Combine and Glaze
Stir the Brussels sprouts well. Make sure they are coated evenly in the honey garlic sauce. Cook for an additional three to four minutes. This will make the sauce thicken slightly and the Brussels tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cooking
To get that perfect golden brown look, start with a hot skillet. Heat your skillet to medium before adding olive oil. Once the oil is warm, place the Brussels sprouts cut side down. Let them cook without moving them for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them brown nicely. If they stick, they need a bit more time. Check them and be patient. You’ll know they are ready when they are golden and crisp.
Adjusting Seasoning
Always taste your dish as you go. After adding the sauce, take a small bite. You can adjust the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or pepper. If you want more heat, toss in extra crushed red pepper flakes. If it’s too sweet, a splash of apple cider vinegar can balance it out. Finding the right flavor is all about personal preference, so don’t be afraid to tweak it.
Presentation Tips
Presentation makes a big difference. Once your Brussels sprouts are cooked, transfer them to a nice serving plate. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Add sliced green onions for a pop of color. This not only looks good but also adds flavor. Serve them warm and watch your guests enjoy the dish!
Variations
Add Protein
You can boost the nutrition of your Honey Garlic Brussel Sprout Skillet by adding protein. Chicken and tofu are great choices.
– Chicken: Dice up some cooked chicken and stir it in at the end. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier.
– Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press it to remove extra water, then cube it. Sauté the tofu until golden before adding the sprouts. This will give you a nice texture.
Flavor Enhancements
You can change the taste with different types of honey or sauces.
– Honey: Try using lavender or wildflower honey for a unique flavor twist. Each type of honey brings its own notes.
– Sauces: Instead of soy sauce, consider using teriyaki sauce or coconut aminos. These options give a different depth to the dish.
Seasonal Additions
Adding seasonal vegetables or nuts can bring great texture and flavor.
– Vegetables: In fall, add roasted butternut squash. In spring, toss in some fresh peas or asparagus.
– Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can add crunch. Just sprinkle them on top before serving for a nice finish.
These variations keep your dish fresh and exciting every time you make it!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your Honey Garlic Brussels Sprouts, let them cool first. Place the sprouts in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. This method keeps the sprouts crispy. Add a splash of olive oil for moisture. Stir the sprouts for about 5 minutes until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but it may make them a bit soft. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts. This avoids overcooking.
Freezing Guidance
Yes, you can freeze Honey Garlic Brussels Sprouts! First, let them cool completely. Then, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can. They can last for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in this dish. They cook well and save time. Just remember to thaw them before cooking. This helps them cook evenly. You may need to adjust cooking time. Frozen veggies tend to have more water. Drain any excess water to avoid a soggy dish.
Is this recipe vegan?
This recipe is not vegan due to honey. Honey comes from bees. If you want a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup. Maple syrup gives a nice sweetness. It works well with the other flavors. All other ingredients, like olive oil and soy sauce, are vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Brussels Sprouts?
Honey garlic Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Here are a few ideas:
– Grilled chicken or tofu for protein
– Quinoa or brown rice for a healthy base
– A fresh salad to add crunch
– Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for comfort
These sides complement the sweet and savory flavors of the dish. Enjoy mixing and matching!
This blog post shared a simple recipe for Honey Garlic Brussels Sprouts. I covered the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best flavor and texture. You can even add proteins or seasonal veggies for variety.
Remember, adjusting the sauce can elevate your dish. Enjoy your cooking journey and impress your guests! With these easy steps, you’ll create a tasty and healthy side dish every time.
