Japanese Brussel Sprout Recipe

Brussel sprouts: These are the main vegetable for the dish, providing a slightly bitter and nutty flavor when roasted.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami taste to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.

Sesame oil: Provides a rich, nutty flavor that is characteristic of many Japanese dishes.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements of the recipe.

Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy note.

Garlic: Minced garlic contributes a robust and aromatic flavor.

Toasted sesame seeds: These add a crunchy texture and a burst of nutty flavor to the finished dish.

To achieve perfectly caramelized brussel sprouts, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which will prevent them from getting that desirable crispy texture.

• brussel sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli florets have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a rich flavor, though it lacks the nutty taste of sesame oil.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative.

• grated ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can provide a similar spicy kick, though it is more concentrated, so use less.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent, so use more.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.

• Allow the brussel sprouts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled brussel sprouts to an airtight container. If you have a vacuum sealer, use it to extend their freshness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The brussel sprouts will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For freezing, spread the cooled brussel sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the brussel sprouts are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the brussel sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to reheat, you can either thaw the brussel sprouts in the refrigerator overnight or reheat them directly from frozen.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the brussel sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the brussel sprouts in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or sesame oil to enhance the flavor. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover brussel sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy again.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of sesame oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover brussel sprouts. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and have a nice, slightly crispy texture.

• Microwave Method: Place the leftover brussel sprouts in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover brussel sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating and to restore some of the original crispiness.

• Steaming Method: Place a steamer basket in a pot with a small amount of water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Add the leftover brussel sprouts to the steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 3-5 minutes until they are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents them from drying out.

• Oven: Used to roast the brussel sprouts at a high temperature, ensuring they become tender and caramelized.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic with the brussel sprouts.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread the brussel sprouts in a single layer for even roasting.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger.

• Grater: Used to grate fresh ginger, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.

• Knife: Essential for trimming and halving the brussel sprouts.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for trimming and halving the brussel sprouts.

• Spatula: Helps to toss the brussel sprouts in the mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce.

• Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic, enhancing the flavor of the dish.

• Measuring cup: Useful for measuring the brussel sprouts to ensure you have the correct quantity.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Trim in bulk: Trim and halve the brussel sprouts in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.