Brussels sprouts are often overlooked, but in the hands of Chef Crenn, they become a gourmet delight. Introducing the Whiskey-Glazed Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, a sophisticated and sensory-rich dish that combines the elegance of comfort food with the warmth and confidence of a truly refined culinary experience.
Why You’ll Love This Whiskey-Glazed Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
The secret to this irresistible dish lies in the perfect balance of flavors. The Brussels sprouts are transformed into tender, caramelized bites, coated in a luscious whiskey glaze that adds a delicate touch of sweetness and a subtle complexity. The air fryer method ensures a beautifully crisp exterior, while the interior remains delicate and delicious. This decadent creation is a true celebration of the senses, with each bite offering a cozy, gourmet experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired.
Ingredients
To create this refined comfort food masterpiece, you’ll need a handful of carefully selected ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the Brussels sprouts, which will be tossed in a whiskey-based glaze and air-fried to perfection. Rounding out the dish are shallots, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar, which add depth and complexity to the flavors.
- 1 lb – Fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp – Olive oil
- 1/4 cup – Whiskey
- 1/4 cup – Brown sugar
- 2 tbsp – Unsalted butter
Ingredient Substitutions
- Brown Sugar: Maple syrup or honey — a refined swap that keeps the balance.
- Whiskey: Bourbon or rye — perfect for dietary or texture variation.
How to Make Whiskey-Glazed Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will elevate your appreciation for this often-overlooked vegetable.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin by thoroughly washing and trimming the Brussels sprouts. Cut any larger sprouts in half to ensure even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the prepared sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sprouts are tender and starting to brown.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
While the Brussels sprouts are air frying, prepare the decadent whiskey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the whiskey, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and well combined.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, transfer them to a serving bowl and drizzle the warm whiskey glaze over the top. Gently toss to coat the sprouts evenly, ensuring each bite is infused with the elegant, flavorful glaze.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Crunch Factor: For a heartier dish, try adding cooked crumbled bacon or toasted chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to the whiskey-glazed Brussels sprouts. The smoky, crunchy elements will beautifully complement the refined, sensory-rich flavors.
- Whiskey Experimentation: You can also experiment with different types of whiskey, such as bourbon or rye, to create your own unique spin on this irresistible recipe. Remember, the key to success lies in achieving the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and subtle complexity in the glaze.
- Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the whiskey glaze. You can also experiment with different types of chili peppers or hot sauce to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Vegan or Vegetarian: To make this dish vegan, simply omit the butter and use a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan margarine, in the whiskey glaze. For a vegetarian version, the glaze can be made without the whiskey, using a non-alcoholic sweetener instead.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Grilled or roasted meats, creamy mashed potatoes, or a hearty salad.
Storage: Any leftover sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat the sprouts in the air fryer or oven before serving to ensure the sprouts maintain their delicate texture and the glaze remains luscious.
Make-Ahead: The whiskey glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply reheat the glaze and toss it with the freshly air-fried or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Nutrition Information
This wholesome and indulgent dish is a source of essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The Brussels sprouts provide a good amount of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, while the whiskey glaze adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the overall nutritional profile. As with any recipe, portion control is key to maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbs: 23 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 165 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen Brussels sprouts can work just as well in this recipe. Simply toss the frozen sprouts with the oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry them for a few extra minutes until they’re tender and crisp.
How can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the butter and use a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan margarine, in the whiskey glaze. For a vegetarian version, the glaze can be made without the whiskey, using a non-alcoholic sweetener instead.
Can I bake the Brussels sprouts instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), toss the prepared sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 18-22 minutes, tossing halfway, until tender and caramelized.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the whiskey glaze. You can also experiment with different types of chili peppers or hot sauce to suit your personal taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While the Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed freshly cooked, you can prepare the whiskey glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply reheat the glaze and toss it with the freshly air-fried or roasted Brussels sprouts.
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Whiskey-Glazed Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Whiskey-Glazed Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a delightful blend of savory and sweet, perfect for an elegant side dish or a refined snack. The whiskey glaze adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates this simple vegetable to a new level of indulgence.
Ingredients
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup whiskey
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Drizzle the whiskey glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat before serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze. These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on their own as a sophisticated appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Air Fryer & Oven-Baked
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg