Name: Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts:; 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp minced ginger; 15 red chili peppers, chopped (serrano, Fresno, or red jalapeños work well); 6 whole dried red chilis; Sauce:; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp black vinegar; 2 tbsp chili garlic sauce; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tsp sesame oil; 2 tsp rice vinegar; For Garnish:; ¼ cup chopped peanuts; ¼ cup chopped scallions

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These Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are a crispy, spicy, and flavor-packed side dish that will elevate any meal. With a savory Kung Pao sauce, crispy Brussels sprouts, and the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, they make a fantastic accompaniment or even a delicious snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors, these Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are a must-try. The crispy Brussels sprouts are coated in a savory, tangy sauce that packs a punch. The combination of garlic, ginger, chili peppers, and hoisin sauce makes this dish both flavorful and exciting to eat. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish brings vibrant Asian-inspired flavors right to your table. Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients

2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons minced ginger
15 red chili peppers, chopped (serrano, Fresno, or red jalapenos work well)
6 whole dried red chilis
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons black vinegar
2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
1/4 cup chopped scallions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, black vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.
Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and toss to coat in the oil.
- Sear the Brussels sprouts undisturbed for 2-3 minutes before stirring. Toss and sear for another 2-3 minutes until they’re evenly crisped on the outsides.
Add Garlic & Chili:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic and chopped red chili peppers. Sauté with the Brussels sprouts for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.
Serve:
- Remove the pan from the heat and top the Brussels sprouts with chopped peanuts and scallions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Less Heat: For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or omit the chopped chili peppers.
Extra Crunch: Add toasted sesame seeds along with the peanuts for an additional layer of texture.
Sweet & Sour: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the honey in the sauce or add a bit of pineapple to balance the heat.
Vegan: Use a plant-based hoisin sauce and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free to make the dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of oil to help restore the crispiness. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I substitute the chili garlic sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have chili garlic sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of garlic sauce and a bit of hot sauce, or even use Sriracha for a different flavor profile.

3. What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce and fresh chili peppers in this recipe, or leave them out entirely. You can still enjoy the flavor of the Kung Pao sauce without the heat.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the Kung Pao sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it when ready to use.

5. How do I get the Brussels sprouts crispy?

To achieve crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure to sear them in a hot skillet without stirring too much at first. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get that golden-brown crispiness.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, if you like it extra spicy, you can add more chili garlic sauce, chopped fresh chili peppers, or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh to preserve the crispiness of the Brussels sprouts, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the Brussels sprouts just before serving.

8. What can I serve Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts with?

These Brussels sprouts would pair wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled meats, or even as a stand-alone appetizer or snack.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the dish for extra flavor and color.

10. Can I use a different nut besides peanuts?

Yes, you can substitute peanuts with cashews, almonds, or even walnuts for a different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful combination of heat, crunch, and savory sauce that makes for an exciting side dish or snack. With crispy Brussels sprouts, a flavorful Kung Pao sauce, and a sprinkle of peanuts and scallions, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a spicy appetizer or a vibrant side to complement your meal, these Brussels sprouts won’t disappoint!