Delicious Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Liven up your roasted Brussels sprouts with a little POW! Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and crunchy. This dish will transform your usual roasted Brussels sprouts into an exciting, flavorful side or main dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Table of Contents
The Best Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Notes on Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need one pound of Brussels sprouts, halved, and a few other simple ingredients. Olive oil helps roast the Brussels sprouts to perfection, while reduced-sodium soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, sambal oelek, and dry sherry create a deliciously complex sauce. Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce, and unsalted roasted peanuts along with chopped green onions provide the final garnishing touches.
How to Make Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with one tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl, then spread them out on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until soft.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine 4 tablespoons of reduced-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sambal oelek, 2 tablespoons of dry sherry, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Cook the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into a large saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens. Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, add them to the saucepan and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: Return the coated Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet. Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler to high heat. Broil the Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes, or until they are nicely browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts with ¼ cup of unsalted roasted peanuts and chopped green onions before serving.
How to Serve Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts can be served as a main dish or a side dish. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. The combination of the spicy sauce and the crunchy peanuts makes it a versatile dish that complements many meals.
How to Store Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a pan over medium heat until heated through. You may also use a microwave, but the sprouts might lose some of their crispiness.
FAQs About Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred as they roast better and maintain a firmer texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before roasting.
What can I substitute for sambal oelek?
You can substitute with sriracha or another chili paste if sambal oelek is unavailable.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for dry sherry?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or additional chicken broth with a dash of lemon juice as a substitute.
The Best Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sambal oelek
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts and olive oil together in a bowl and spread out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until soft, about 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile combine soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, sambal oelek, sherry, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Pour mixture into a large saucepan and cook over low heat until sauce is thickened and Brussels sprouts are done cooking. Add Brussels sprouts to saucepan and toss to coat with sauce. Return Brussels sprouts to baking sheet.
- Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler to high heat.
- Broil Brussels sprouts until browned, about 5 minutes. Garnish with peanuts and green onions.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and exciting Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy!
