Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these air-fryer Brussels sprouts make for a fantastic side dish or healthy snack. This is a quick and easy recipe that you can customise endlessly.

Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these air-fryer Brussels sprouts make for a fantastic side dish or healthy snack. This is a quick and easy recipe that you can customise endlessly. Below I am sharing my favourite garnishes and seasonings.

My air fryer has become indispensable, especially when I need to cook small quantities of food. It is much more efficient and economical than switching on the oven. While air frying allows you to achieve a crispy texture similar to deep frying, it uses much less oil. This means you can enjoy your favourite fried foods without the guilt and added calories.

I love air frying all kinds of vegetables and these air-fryer Brussels sprouts are an autumn/winter favourite. In the summer, I love these Air fryer Aubergines with Romesco Dip. If you want to enjoy something different, why not try my Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad.

I like to snack on them on their own, but they also make a fantastic side to a protein source such as grilled chicken or tofu. Alternatively, you can also toss them with cooked pasta. Or, for a hearty salad, add them to cooked grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or farro and mix in other ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado. Try these air-fryer Brussels sprouts in wraps or sandwiches for added texture and flavour. They pair well with roasted red peppers or hummus.

Why air fry Brussels sprouts

Air-frying Brussels sprouts is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy, flavourful Brussels sprouts. It gives Brussels sprouts a crispy and slightly charred exterior while maintaining a tender interior. It is so much more appealing than the mushy texture that boiling can sometimes produce.

Like roasting, air-frying Brussels sprouts also enhances their flavour. As the Brussels sprouts cook, they caramelise their natural sugars, which results in a sweeter and more complex flavour.

Air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying or deep-frying, making it a healthier cooking method. You can achieve crispy results with just a light coating of oil or even use cooking spray, reducing the overall calorie and fat content of a dish.

The even distribution of hot air in an air fryer ensures that Brussels sprouts cook uniformly on all sides. This helps achieve consistent browning and texture.

How to make these air-fryer Brussels sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels sprouts

First, you need to trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise.

Step 2: Season the Brussels sprouts

Toss the Brussels sprouts with oil, salt, and garlic powder or your chosen seasoning.

Step 3: Place in the air fryer basket

Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Brussels sprouts

Air fry the Brussels sprouts at 190°C/375°F. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the sprouts are crispy and golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time.

Step 5: Garnish (optional) and serve

Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving bowl. If using toss them in parmesan and thyme leaves (or your chosen garnish). Serve straight away.

My favourite garnishes and seasonings

I have chosen to flavour these air fryer Brussels sprouts with a simple seasoning of Parmesan cheese and thyme. However, you can customise this recipe to your own liking.

Here are a few of my favourite garnishes and seasonings:

Garnishes:

1. Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, cilantro, or chives add a burst of freshness and colour.
2. Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful nutty flavour.
3. Chopped Nuts: Toasted slivered almonds, pecans, hazelnuts, walnuts, or pine nuts add crunch.
4. Tempeh Bacon: Tempeh bacon bits add a smoky and savoury touch. See my recipe here.
5. Toasted Bread Crumbs: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and a hint of nuttiness.
6. Fruity note: A handful of dried cranberries, raisins, currants, fresh juicy pomegranate seeds or oranges can offer a sweet contrast.
7. Caramelised shallots or onions: For an umami-rich, savoury and sweet flavour.
8. Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, citrusy squeeze.
9. Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: As a dipping sauce or dollop on the side for creaminess.
10. Cheese: Add blue cheese, cheddar, parmesan, feta, or goat cheese for a savoury, boost.
11. Truffle Oil: A drizzle of truffle oil will add earthy, nutty and woody undertones as well as plenty of umami.

Seasonings:

1. Salt and Pepper: A classic combination to bring out the natural flavour of the Brussels sprouts.
2. Garlic Powder: Adds a savoury and aromatic element without the bite of fresh garlic.
3. Paprika or Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavour.
4. Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat and extra kick.
5. Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the cooked Brussels sprouts for a refreshing citrus twist.
6. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction or glaze over the Brussels sprouts for a sweet and tangy finish.
7. Cayenne Pepper: If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some spiciness.
8. Soy Sauce or Tamari: For an umami-rich, salty flavour.

Watch how to make these air-fryer Brussels sprouts

I hope you enjoy this air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe as much as we do. If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram!

Frequently Asked Questions about these air-fryer Brussels sprouts

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