Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts: A Simple, Delicious Recipe
Are you looking for a way to elevate your Brussels sprouts game? Forget the boiled or steamed versions; this recipe will transform those sometimes-maligned vegetables into crispy, flavorful delights. This fried Brussels sprouts recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and delivers incredible results every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet sophisticated side dish.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe achieves perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts by employing a few key techniques:
- Halving and trimming: Properly preparing the Brussels sprouts ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Par-boiling: A quick par-boil softens the sprouts slightly, preventing burning while still maintaining a satisfying bite.
- The double-fry method: This technique delivers incredibly crispy results. The first fry cooks the sprouts through, and the second fry crisps them to perfection.
- Flavorful coating: A simple blend of spices elevates the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts, creating a truly addictive dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or your preferred high-heat oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim and halve: Remove any wilted outer leaves and trim the bottom stem of each Brussels sprout. Halve them lengthwise. Smaller sprouts can be left whole.
2. Par-boil the Sprouts:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until slightly tender but still firm to the bite. Don't overcook!
3. Make the Crispy Coating:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. The Double-Fry:
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First Fry: Heat about 1/4 cup of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (a breadcrumb will sizzle immediately), add the Brussels sprouts in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and slightly softened. Remove from skillet and set aside on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Second Fry: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Once hot, add the par-boiled and partially fried Brussels sprouts back to the skillet. Fry for another 3-5 minutes, until golden brown and incredibly crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the crispy Brussels sprouts from the skillet and serve immediately. They're delicious as a standalone side dish or as a complement to your favorite protein.
Tips for Extra Crispy Brussels Sprouts:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy sprouts. Work in batches if necessary.
- Pat them dry: Before frying, pat the par-boiled Brussels sprouts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them crisp up nicely.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. Smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese would be delicious additions.
This fried Brussels sprouts recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crispy texture and flavorful coating will transform even the pickiest eaters into Brussels sprouts fans. Give it a try and enjoy!
