Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables as a side dish! Perfectly crispy and coated in a sweet soy glaze, they are sure to please at any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, these brussel sprouts bring flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this scrumptious side dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the humble brussel sprout.
• Crispy Texture: Using an air fryer ensures that the brussel sprouts achieve the perfect crunch without excessive oil.
• Versatile Side Dish: These sprouts complement any main course, making them an ideal choice for various meals and occasions.
• Easy Cleanup: The air fryer makes cooking and cleaning up hassle-free, allowing you to enjoy your meal with less mess.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks the brussel sprouts evenly and crisps them perfectly without deep frying.
• Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the glaze, ensuring it thickens nicely while keeping your stovetop clean.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing the cooked sprouts with the glaze before serving for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are a delicious, flavourful way to include vegetables as a side dish! The air fryer crisps up these brussel sprouts perfectly. Topped with a sweet and sticky soy glaze, and savoury crispy fried onions, these sprouts are packed with flavour and crunch!

For the Brussel Sprouts

• 2 cups Brussel sprouts (halved)

For the Soy Glaze

• 1/2 cup Soy sauce
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 tsp Sesame oil
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Ginger & garlic paste

For Topping

• 1/4 cup French fried onions

How to Make Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

Step 1: Air Fry the Brussel Sprouts

1. Add the halved brussel sprouts to an air fryer basket.
2. Spray the brussel sprouts lightly with cooking spray.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until they are crisp-tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

1. While the sprouts are cooking, combine all glaze ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Place over medium-low heat and stir until combined.

Step 3: Thicken the Glaze

1. Cook until most of the water has evaporated, leaving a thick sauce that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Transfer the cooked brussel sprouts to a serving dish.
2. Spoon the thickened glaze over them and sprinkle with crispy fried onions.
3. Serve immediately or toss them in a bowl with the glaze before serving for even coverage.

Enjoy your flavorful Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts as an irresistible side dish!

How to Serve Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These Red Lobster copycat brussel sprouts are a delightful addition to any meal. Their sweet and savory flavor, combined with a satisfying crunch, makes them a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses.

As a Standalone Snack

• Enjoy these air-fried brussel sprouts as a tasty snack. The sweet soy glaze and crispy onions make them irresistible.

Accompanying Grilled Chicken

• Serve the brussel sprouts alongside grilled chicken for a balanced meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

With Beef Stir-Fry

• Pair your brussel sprouts with a hearty beef stir-fry. The savory elements of both dishes enhance each other for an enjoyable dining experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Place the glazed brussel sprouts over steamed rice for a filling dish. This combination adds texture and flavor to your meal.

How to Perfect Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

To achieve the best results with your brussel sprouts, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Choose fresh sprouts: Select firm, bright green brussel sprouts for the best taste and texture.
• Cut evenly: Halve the brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd: Air fry in batches if necessary; this allows hot air to circulate around each sprout, ensuring they crisp up nicely.
• Adjust glaze consistency: Keep an eye on the glaze as it thickens; you want it sticky but not too thick that it doesn’t coat the sprouts well.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sesame seeds or fresh herbs for extra flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

These brussel sprouts are excellent on their own, but they can also be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Herb Roasted Chicken: A juicy herb-marinated chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze of the brussels.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the brussel sprouts.
4. Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: This cheesy, comforting dish brings additional textures and flavors that go well together.
5. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with spices and vegetables adds lightness to your plate.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a deliciously sweet counterbalance to the savory brussels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your experience while making Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat for best results.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many brussel sprouts in the air fryer can prevent proper crisping. Cook in batches for even results.
• Neglecting to Coat Properly: Failing to coat the sprouts with cooking spray may result in soggy vegetables. Ensure a light spray for that perfect crisp.
• Ignoring Glaze Consistency: If you don’t cook the glaze until thick, it won’t adhere well to the sprouts. Stir and monitor until it coats a spoon cleanly.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Poor soy sauce can affect flavor. Choose a high-quality brand for the best taste in your glaze.
• Not Adjusting for Personal Taste: Following the recipe without adjustments may not suit everyone’s palate. Feel free to modify ingredients to match your preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

• Place cooled brussel sprouts in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer}.

Can I make these without soy sauce?

You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my brussel sprouts are crispy?

Make sure they are dry before air frying and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ginger paste?

Yes, fresh ginger can be minced and used in place of ginger paste for added flavor.

What other toppings work well with this recipe?

Consider adding crushed nuts, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor and texture.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

These Red Lobster Copycat Brussel Sprouts {Air Fryer} are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect as a side dish or snack, they can be customized with additional toppings or sauces. Try them out and explore your creativity in the kitchen!