Transform your perception of vegetables with these irresistible **Roasted Brussels Sprouts in a Sweet Chili Glaze**. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a culinary revelation that promises to convert even the most skeptical Brussels sprout critics into fervent fans. Boasting a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes, these sprouts are incredibly quick and simple to prepare, yet consistently deliver an explosion of delicious flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight addition or a standout dish for a festive gathering, this recipe offers a foolproof way to enjoy one of nature’s most misunderstood vegetables at its absolute best.
For years, my incredible food blogging friends, Ree (The Pioneer Woman) and Elise (Simply Recipes), and I have upheld a cherished tradition: hosting lively parties for our vibrant food blogging community. It’s more than just an event; it’s a spontaneous urge that strikes whenever our paths cross in the same city. We gather, we eat, we dance, and we revel in merry companionship, fostering connections and sharing our passion for food.
This particular year, our delightful shindig unfolded at the iconic Stubb’s BBQ Restaurant in Austin, Texas, coinciding with the esteemed BlogHer Food Conference. While the idea of us three orchestrating such a grand affair might sound impressive, the reality is far more humble. We simply had the immense pleasure of showing up as hostesses, while all the intricate planning, management, and flawless execution were expertly handled by the truly fabulous team at BlogHer! Their hard work ensured an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Unforgettable Roasted Brussels from Austin, Texas!
During my visit to Austin, a culinary quest was high on my agenda: to experience the legendary roasted Brussels sprouts served at renowned local establishments, Uchiko and the East Side King Food Truck at The Liberty Bar. Both culinary gems showcased Brussels sprouts treated to a masterful oven roasting technique, then bathed in an exquisite Asian-inspired sauce. This method is a game-changer because the resulting flavor profile is nothing short of extraordinary. The perfect harmony of salty, sweet, savory, garlicky, and sour notes, beautifully complemented by the inherent nutty char developed during roasting, creates an experience so delightful that it completely eradicates any lingering childhood memories of bland, soggy, or bitter Brussels sprouts. This is how Brussels sprouts were always meant to be enjoyed!
Uchi/Uchiko’s official recipe, while undoubtedly incredible, involves a duo of complex sauces and a long list of ingredients, making it a bit too elaborate for my philosophy of “easy Asian” cooking. Driven by the desire to replicate that unforgettable taste without the fuss, I’ve developed a simplified recipe that captures a remarkably similar flavor profile with just the bare necessities. My version skillfully combines the aromatic depth of garlic, the umami richness of fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option), and the irresistible tang and sweetness of Thai sweet chili sauce. This streamlined approach ensures that anyone can recreate the magic of Austin’s famous roasted Brussels sprouts in their own kitchen, effortlessly.
Why These Sweet Chili Glazed Brussels Sprouts Are a Must-Try
These aren’t just any roasted Brussels sprouts; they are a carefully crafted culinary experience designed to impress and delight. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- An Effortless Yet Flavorful Side: This recipe delivers maximum flavor and appealing textures with minimal effort. Roasting them creates beautifully caramelized edges and a tender interior, while the sweet chili glaze infuses every bite with a complex and satisfying taste that stands out on any plate. It’s the ideal companion for nearly any main course.
- The Ultimate Brussels Sprout Converter: If you or someone you know has a long-standing aversion to Brussels sprouts, prepare for a complete transformation. The dynamic interplay of sweet, salty, and spicy in the glaze, combined with the pleasant bitterness mellowed by roasting, turns these once-feared mini cabbages into a highly anticipated dish. Many have declared this recipe the one that finally made them love Brussels sprouts!
- Perfect for Holiday Feasts: Beyond being a fantastic everyday side, these glazed Brussels sprouts are a show-stopping addition to special occasions. Their vibrant flavor and elegant presentation make them an ideal choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. They provide a lighter, yet incredibly satisfying, counterpoint to rich holiday meals, ensuring your spread is both diverse and delicious.
Essential Ingredients for Your Sweet Chili Glazed Sprouts
Crafting these delectable Brussels sprouts requires only a handful of readily available ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the signature flavor:
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh is always best for optimal texture and flavor. Look for firm, bright green sprouts without any yellowing or wilting leaves. The smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter.
- Cooking Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil, is ideal for roasting. It helps achieve that perfect caramelization without imparting unwanted flavors.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable here. Its pungent aroma and sharp flavor are fundamental to the Asian-inspired glaze, providing a depth that garlic powder simply cannot match.
- Fish Sauce or Soy Sauce: This ingredient is key for delivering a powerful umami punch and essential saltiness. Fish sauce offers a unique depth of flavor, while soy sauce is an excellent vegetarian or more commonly available alternative that still provides the necessary savory base.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: The star of the glaze! This versatile sauce provides the perfect balance of sweetness, mild heat, and a tangy kick. It caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, creating that irresistible glossy finish.
Mastering the Method: How To Make These Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Step By Step
Achieving perfectly roasted and glazed Brussels sprouts is surprisingly simple when you follow these clear steps:
- Prepare for Roasting: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for encouraging the sprouts to caramelize and become tender-crisp. On a large baking sheet, toss your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with cooking oil. Ensure each sprout is lightly and evenly coated to promote uniform roasting and browning. Spread them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this will steam rather than roast them.
- First Roast and Broiler Setup: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. Halfway through, give the sprouts a good toss to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides. After 20 minutes, remove the sprouts from the oven. Immediately switch your oven’s broiler to high heat and adjust the oven rack to the top third of the oven. This positioning is critical for achieving a quick, even caramelization of the glaze.
- Craft the Sweet Chili Glaze: While the broiler preheats, whisk together the minced garlic, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl until well combined. This is where the magic happens, creating the signature sweet and savory profile. Pour this delicious glaze directly over the roasted Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet, tossing everything thoroughly to ensure every single sprout is beautifully coated.
- Broil to Perfection: Return the glazed Brussels sprouts to the oven, placing them under the preheated broiler. Broil for approximately 5 minutes. This step is where the sugar in the chili sauce will bubble, thicken, and caramelize, forming a gorgeous, sticky glaze. The edges of the sprouts will deepen in color and become delightfully crisp.
- Serve Immediately: This final step requires your full attention! Keep a close eye on the sprouts as they broil, as the high heat can cause them to burn quickly. The moment they achieve that beautiful bubbling, caramelized finish, remove them from the oven. Do not let them linger. Serve these glorious, glistening Brussels sprouts immediately to enjoy them at their peak crispy-tender perfection.
Preparing Your Brussels Sprouts: The Essential Cut
Proper preparation of your Brussels sprouts is key to ensuring they roast evenly and achieve that desirable tender-crisp texture. While your oven is preheating to the optimal temperature, take the time to prepare your sprouts meticulously.
First, give all the sprouts a thorough rinse under cold water to clean off any dirt. Next, it’s crucial to pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can prevent them from browning properly, leading to steaming instead of roasting. Carefully pluck off and discard any outer leaves that appear browned, yellowed, or wilty – these can introduce an unpleasant bitterness or texture. Then, using a sharp knife, trim off the tough, woody ends of each sprout. Finally, cut each sprout precisely in half lengthwise. This ensures more surface area is exposed to the heat, promoting better caramelization and more even cooking throughout. Don’t worry if a few leaves fall off during this process; those little loose leaves will get extra crispy and delicious during roasting, so be sure to save them and include them on the baking sheet!
Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts a Healthy Choice?
Absolutely, Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious! Roasting them with a simple glaze doesn’t diminish their impressive health benefits. Here’s why incorporating them into your diet is a smart move:
- Powerful Anti-inflammatory and Cancer-Fighting Properties: Brussels sprouts are a rich source of powerful antioxidants like kaempferol and essential omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds have been extensively studied for their potential to inhibit cancer growth, significantly reduce inflammation throughout the body, and contribute positively to overall heart health.
- Digestive Health and Chronic Disease Prevention: Packed with high levels of dietary fiber, Brussels sprouts are excellent for supporting a healthy digestive system. Fiber aids in promoting regular bowel movements and can also play a crucial role in lowering the risk of heart disease and managing blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for diabetes prevention.
- Immune System Boost and Tissue Repair: These tiny green powerhouses are bursting with vitamin C, a vital nutrient for a robust immune system. Vitamin C also enhances iron absorption, which is essential for energy, and is critical for collagen production, supporting healthy skin, bones, and connective tissues. Furthermore, it aids in the growth and repair of all body tissues.
Can You Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts in This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for achieving the best possible texture and flavor in this recipe, you can certainly use frozen ones if fresh are not available. However, there are a few extra steps to ensure they turn out as well as possible, though it’s important to manage expectations regarding the final texture.
If opting for frozen sprouts, it is crucial to thaw them completely before you begin the roasting process. Once thawed, pat them extremely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture from frozen vegetables will prevent them from caramelizing and result in a steamed, rather than roasted, texture. For an even better result, place the completely thawed and dried sprouts on a baking sheet in the oven (without any oil yet) for about 5-10 minutes before adding oil. This helps to further dry them out. After this initial drying step, remove them from the oven, toss them with cooking oil as directed in the recipe, and proceed with the roasting steps. I’ve experimented with frozen Brussels sprouts many times, and while they are perfectly edible and still absorb the delicious glaze, their texture will not be quite as firm or have the same satisfying crispy edges as fresh sprouts. For an optimal culinary experience, always prioritize using fresh Brussels sprouts whenever possible.
Top Tips for Perfectly Glazed Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts
To ensure your sweet chili glazed Brussels sprouts are nothing short of spectacular every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Your Sprouts Wisely: When selecting Brussels sprouts, remember this rule of thumb: the smaller the sprouts, the sweeter and more tender they generally are. Larger sprouts tend to have a slightly more pronounced cabbage-like flavor and can sometimes be a bit more bitter. Aim for consistent sizing for even roasting.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for successful roasting. If the Brussels sprouts are piled on top of each other, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in a soft, soggy texture rather than the desired crispy-tender edges. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure a single layer with enough space between each sprout.
- Monitor the Broiler Closely: The broiler step is quick and transformative, but it also demands your full attention. The sugars in the sweet chili sauce can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stay near the oven and watch them carefully; they’re ready when they’re beautifully glistening and slightly charred, not blackened.
- Storage and Reheating: If you have any glorious leftovers (a rare occurrence!), place the cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight storage container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven or an air fryer until heated through and slightly re-crisped. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make them soggy.
- Versatile Pairing: These sweet chili glazed Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide array of main dishes. They are an exceptional accompaniment to roasted chicken or turkey, flaky salmon, tender pork tenderloin, or even tossed into a simple pasta dish for an added vegetable boost. Their bold flavor also stands up well to grilled meats and other Asian-inspired entrees.
- Flavor Customization: Feel free to adjust the heat level of the glaze to your preference. For more spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a brighter flavor, a squeeze of fresh lime juice after broiling can work wonders. A sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving also adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe Video
For a visual guide to mastering this amazing side dish, check out our step-by-step recipe video below. See exactly how to prepare, roast, and glaze your Brussels sprouts to perfection!
Explore More Delicious Side Dish Recipes
Looking to round out your meal with more incredible sides? Don’t miss these other fan favorites:
- Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan Recipe
- The Pioneer Woman’s Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
- Roasted Cauliflower with Bacon and Garlic Recipe
We hope you’ll give these incredible Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Chili Sauce a try! They truly are a revelation for anyone looking to add a flavorful, healthy, and easy side to their meal rotation. Once you’ve experienced the delightful balance of flavors and textures, we’d love to hear about it. Feel free to leave a star rating below and share your thoughts in the comments section – your feedback makes our culinary community even better!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Jaden Hair
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussels sprouts stem trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 garlic cloves finely minced
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts in cooking oil to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, tossing them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and brown on all sides. After 20 minutes, remove sprouts from the oven and turn on the oven broiler to high, with the oven rack positioned in the top third of the oven.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sweet chili sauce. Pour this mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts, tossing to coat them evenly and thoroughly with the glaze.
- Return the Brussels sprouts to the oven under the preheated broiler for 5 minutes, or until the sugar in the chili sauce is visibly bubbling, caramelizing, and forming a beautiful glaze. Watch them very carefully during this step so they don’t burn! Remove from the oven immediately and serve hot.