Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Air fryers are a great way to cook Brussels sprouts, giving them a crispy texture without the need for deep-frying. This method is much healthier and quicker than roasting in an oven. The circulating hot air of the air fryer ensures the sprouts become tender on the inside while crisping up on the outside.

To make Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, first trim the ends and cut any large sprouts in half. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, before arranging them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for around 15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.

There are many ways to season your sprouts, including balsamic vinegar, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, and honey. For an extra indulgent touch, finish with a buttery glaze.

Choosing and preparing Brussels sprouts

When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for those that are bright green and firm with tightly closed leaves. Smaller sprouts that are about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter are generally more tender and sweeter. Avoid sprouts with loose, yellowed, or withered leaves, as these are past their prime.

Brussels sprouts are available year-round, but their peak season is from mid-fall to early winter, so that's the best time to find the freshest and most flavourful sprouts. If you can find them, buy sprouts that are still on the stalk, as these tend to stay fresher longer.

To prepare Brussels sprouts for cooking, start by trimming the stems and removing any loose or damaged outer leaves. If you want to ensure your sprouts are extra tender, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before cooking. After soaking, be sure to pat them dry before adding any oil or seasonings.

When cutting Brussels sprouts, the most common method is to halve them lengthwise through the stem, but you can also quarter them or leave them whole, depending on your preference and the recipe you are following. Try to keep the sprouts a similar size so that they cook evenly.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for air fryer Brussels sprouts can vary depending on the size of the sprouts and the type of air fryer being used. However, most recipes recommend cooking Brussels sprouts in the air fryer at a temperature between 360°F and 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes.

It is important to note that the air fryer should be preheated to ensure the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and become crispy. The temperature can be set to 375°F for preheating, and it is best to arrange the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket to maximize their exposure to the hot air.

During the cooking process, it is recommended to shake or toss the air fryer basket a few times to ensure even cooking and browning. This helps to prevent burning and promotes even crispness.

Some recipes suggest cooking the sprouts for a shorter period, such as 8 to 10 minutes, and then checking and adjusting the cooking time as needed. This is because the cooking time can vary depending on the size of the sprouts and the preferences for doneness.

For frozen Brussels sprouts, the cooking time may need to be increased by a few minutes, and the temperature should be set to 380°F to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Adding flavour

There are a variety of ways to add flavour to your Brussels sprouts when cooking them in an air fryer. Here are some ideas:

Seasoning

A simple way to add flavour is to season your sprouts with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder, as suggested by one source, or fresh garlic, as suggested by another.

Oil

Using a good quality oil will enhance the flavour of your sprouts. Avocado oil is recommended by one source, while another suggests olive oil.

Honey

Drizzling honey over your sprouts will give them a sweet finish. This works particularly well if you also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy variation.

Balsamic vinegar

You can drizzle balsamic vinegar over your sprouts, or try making a balsamic reduction to drizzle over them instead. To make a reduction, simmer the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan until it thickens, then whisk in olive oil, lime juice and soy sauce.

Parmesan

Sprinkling Parmesan cheese over your sprouts will add flavour and texture.

Bacon

Adding bacon to your sprouts will give them a salty, savoury flavour.

Getting the right texture

The secret to achieving the perfect texture for your Brussels sprouts is to get them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Here are some tips to ensure you get that ideal texture:

Soaking

If you prefer your Brussels sprouts to be softer or more tender in the centre, you can soak them in water before air frying. This step is optional and can be skipped if you like your sprouts to have a firmer texture. The recommended soaking time is around 10 minutes. After soaking, make sure to drain and pat the sprouts dry before proceeding to the next step.

Trimming and Halving

Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any brown or wilted outer leaves. Cut any large sprouts in half, or even into quarters, to ensure even cooking. This will increase the surface area exposed to the hot air, promoting even browning and crispiness.

Seasoning

Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, honey, or balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavour. Make sure to coat the sprouts evenly with the oil and seasonings.

Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to around 375-400°F (190°C). Place the sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure maximum exposure to the hot air. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Shake or rotate the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.

Checking for Doneness

Keep an eye on your Brussels sprouts to avoid overcooking or burning. They are ready when they are crispy and deeply browned on the outside, but still tender on the inside. You may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature depending on your air fryer and the size of your sprouts.

Serving

Once your Brussels sprouts are cooked to your desired level of doneness, transfer them to a serving bowl or plate. You can garnish with additional salt and pepper, or other toppings like Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, or honey. Serve them hot and enjoy the perfect blend of crispy and tender textures!

Storing and reheating

When you're ready to reheat, you can either use the air fryer or pop them on a baking sheet in the oven, rewarming them at 350°F (180°C) until they're hot.

You can also freeze your sprouts, but be aware that they may become mushy once thawed. If you still want to go ahead and freeze them, place them in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. Then, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently asked questions