Spicy Asian Brussels Sprouts

These Spicy Asian Brussels Sprouts are the bomb because while caramelized, these baby cabbages still have a nice kick — sweet and fiery at the same time! I do love my Brussels sprouts!

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Oh, the joy of Brussels sprouts! These tasty mini-cabbages are adored, and yet so despised. They clearly don’t get the respect they deserve! I must admit, I didn’t love Brussels sprouts for decades until the right preparation was served to me in a small, authentic Asian restaurant in New York City’s China Town many years ago.

From that day forward, I vowed to convert my family into Brussels-lovers. The begging and pleading finally convinced them to give it a try. Are Brussels an acquired taste? I do believe it takes a few bites to appreciate these babies.

Brussels sprouts are full of healthy nutrients! They're typically cooked by boiling, steaming, stir frying, grilling, slow cooking, or roasting. My favorite way to cook Brussels sprouts is roasting because it brings out the sweetness of the sprouts.

5 ways brussels sprouts benefit your health

Brussels sprouts boast high levels of many nutrients and have been linked to several health benefits.

1. High in Nutrients -- Brussels sprouts are low in calories but rich with vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamins K and C.
2. Rich in Antioxidants -- Brussels sprouts contain kaempferol, an antioxidant that may reduce cancer growth, decrease inflammation and promote heart health.
3. May Help Protect Against Cancer -- Some studies show that the compounds found in Brussels sprouts may decrease the risk of cancer.
4. High in Fiber -- Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, which can promote regularity, support digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
5. Contain ALA Omega-3 Fatty Acids -- Brussels sprouts are a good source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids (non-seafood Omega-3s), which can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, cognitive decline and blood triglycerides.

Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for at least 30 minutes until golden brown. These beauties are so good tossed in a flavorful Asian sauce! A small amount of sambal oelek gives this yummy sauce the perfect kick!

What you'll need to make the Asian sauce:

This simple sauce is good on so many things, but especially on these roasted Brussels sprouts!

• 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sambal oelek (red chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• Pinch black pepper

I love this Spicy Asian Brussels Sprouts recipe! Roasted in the oven, pan fried, or uncooked shaved and tossed in a salad, they are versatile, healthy, and loaded with nutrients! Give them a try! These crispy, roasted Brussels sprouts are sweet, spicy, savory, and so good for you! Even Brussels-deniers will love this side dish!

You gotta try my Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Shiitake Mushrooms! It's another healthy, delicious recipe!

Tips and Tricks

• Cut off the thick end of the Brussels sprouts before roasting. They don't taste good and are too tough!
• Make sure to dry the Brussels thoroughly before tossing with the oil. This will allow them to get crispy and golden when roasting.
• Toss the Brussels with the sauce as soon as it comes out of the oven. Serve immediately.

Want more?

If you liked these Spicy Asian Brussels Sprouts, you’re going to want these other side dish recipes:

• Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Shiitake Mushrooms
• Baby Bok Choy with Ginger and Garlic
• Asian-Spiced Roasted Rainbow Carrots
• Sweet and Spicy Tri-Colored Cauliflower

Update Notes: This post was originally published on January 22, 2016, but was republished with slight text changes and additions, like new images, step by step instructions, and tips in January 2021.

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