Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Cooking Time Perfection

Air fryers are a great way to cook Brussels sprouts, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The high temperature of the air fryer means that Brussels sprouts can be cooked in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the sprouts and the desired level of crispiness.

How to prepare Brussels sprouts for the air fryer

##section_1

Preparing Brussels sprouts for the air fryer is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Here is a guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Trimming and Soaking

Start by trimming the ends off your Brussels sprouts and removing any discoloured or damaged outer leaves. You can also cut them in half, or quarter them if they are larger, to ensure even cooking. If you prefer your sprouts softer, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes. This step is optional but helps to tenderise the sprouts. After soaking, make sure to pat them dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Seasoning

Place the trimmed Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. You can also add your desired seasonings at this point. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thinly sliced garlic cloves. Toss the sprouts well to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (some models may not require preheating). Place the seasoned sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning. The sprouts are ready when they are crispy and golden brown.

Step 4: Serving

Once your Brussels sprouts are cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can serve them as is or with additional toppings. Some popular toppings include balsamic reduction, Parmesan cheese, hot honey, and crumbled bacon. Enjoy your delicious and crispy air-fried Brussels sprouts!

How long to cook Brussels sprouts in the air fryer

Brussels sprouts are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways. Using an air fryer is one of the best ways to cook them, as it makes them crispy and tender. Here is a guide on how long to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer.

Preparation

First, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged or discoloured outer leaves. If the sprouts are large, cut them in half or into quarters to ensure even cooking. You can also soak the sprouts in warm water for 8-10 minutes to make them softer and tenderise them before air frying. This step is optional, but it can help ensure the sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Preheat your air fryer to between 375°F and 400°F. The exact temperature will depend on your air fryer model, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the sprouts in batches.

Cook the sprouts for 15 minutes at 375°F, shaking the basket or tossing the sprouts halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you are cooking at a higher temperature, such as 400°F, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Adding Flavour

You can add flavour to your Brussels sprouts by tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. You can also add minced garlic or garlic powder halfway through the cooking process. For a sweet and tangy flavour, drizzle the cooked sprouts with balsamic reduction or glaze. For a salty kick, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Troubleshooting

If your Brussels sprouts are burning or drying out, try blanching or parboiling them before air frying. You can also add a small amount of water to the air fryer to create a steam effect. Keep in mind that different air fryer models may require adjustments to cooking time and temperature, so always monitor your sprouts while cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.

How to season Brussels sprouts for the air fryer

Brussels sprouts are a great vegetable to cook in an air fryer. The super-hot circulating air makes their insides tender while the outsides crisp to perfection.

Seasoning Brussels Sprouts for the Air Fryer

There are several ways to season Brussels sprouts for the air fryer. Here are some options:

• Olive oil – This helps the Brussels sprouts become crispy and delicious. You don't need as much oil as you would when cooking in an oven.
• Salt and pepper – Sometimes the simplest seasonings are the best.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is a scrumptious addition. Add it halfway through cooking or toss the Brussels sprouts with garlic powder.
• Balsamic vinegar – Drizzle balsamic reduction, a thickened balsamic vinegar, over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
• Parmesan – Grated Parmesan cheese is a salty topping that goes well with Brussels sprouts.
• Feta – Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with a handful of feta cheese.
• Honey – Drizzle honey over the cooked sprouts for a sweet finish. For a sweet and spicy variation, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Bacon – Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the finished sprouts.

Steps to Prepare Brussels Sprouts for the Air Fryer

First, trim the ends from the Brussels sprouts and cut any large ones in half. If you'd like the Brussels sprouts to be softer, you can soak them in water for about 10 minutes before cooking.

Next, drain and dry the sprouts, then toss them with oil and your choice of seasonings.

Finally, add them to the air fryer, arranging them in a single layer for maximum exposure to the hot, circulating air.

How to reheat Brussels sprouts in the air fryer

Brussels sprouts are a great side dish for any meal, and an air fryer is a great shortcut to get them on the table fast. But what about reheating? If you have leftover Brussels sprouts, the best way to reheat them is to use the same method that was used to cook them. So, if you originally cooked your Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, the best way to reheat them is in the air fryer. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a lower temperature than you would typically use for cooking Brussels sprouts, as you are just reheating them.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your Brussels sprouts. If they have been in the fridge, let them come to room temperature first. You can also add some fresh herbs or spices to them if you want to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Place the Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this will affect their ability to reheat evenly. If you have a lot of Brussels sprouts, you may need to reheat them in batches.

Step 4: Reheat the Brussels Sprouts

Place the basket in the air fryer and set the timer for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you don't want them to burn. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

Step 5: Serve

Once the Brussels sprouts are heated through, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

And that's it! You now have perfectly reheated Brussels sprouts that taste just as good as they did when they were first cooked. This method helps to ensure that your Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without becoming soggy or burnt.

How to store Brussels sprouts after cooking

There are a few things to keep in mind when storing Brussels sprouts after cooking to ensure they stay fresh and tasty. Here are some detailed instructions:

Storing Cooked Brussels Sprouts:

Firstly, it's important to note that cooked Brussels sprouts should be stored in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, but it is recommended to consume them within two days for the best quality and taste.

Storing Raw Brussels Sprouts:

When storing raw Brussels sprouts, it is best to avoid the standard plastic bag from the market as these bags can accumulate moisture, leading to quicker spoilage. Instead, transfer the sprouts to an airtight food storage container or a plastic bag with a secure zip closure. Remove any brown or yellow leaves to prevent rotting, and only wash the sprouts right before use. Stored this way, Brussels sprouts can last for about a week in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.

Storing Brussels Sprouts on the Stalk:

If you purchase Brussels sprouts on the stalk, trim the stalk as you would a bouquet of flowers, place it in a glass of water, and then store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply snip off each sprout as needed and discard the stalk. This method helps the sprouts maintain their freshness for about a month.

Storing Cut or Shredded Brussels Sprouts:

For cut, shredded, or prepped Brussels sprouts, it's best to store them in an airtight container. While it's convenient to have them pre-chopped, they will spoil a bit quicker. Enjoy them within three to four days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Brussels Sprouts:

If you wish to freeze Brussels sprouts, there are two methods. The first is a quick-freeze method where you spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours before transferring them to a freezer-friendly container. This method will keep the sprouts fresh for up to three months. The second method involves blanching the sprouts first, then freezing them using the quick-freeze method. Blanching helps retain nutrients and improves taste. Frozen this way, Brussels sprouts can last for 12 to 14 months.

Frequently asked questions