Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Soy-Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
Spicy Soy-Glazed Brussels Sprouts are a savory and zesty vegetable side dish where sprouts are tossed in a blend of soy sauce, Sriracha, and Dijon mustard, then cooked until caramelized.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need 1 lb of Brussels sprouts, olive oil, low-sodium soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, chopped garlic, and optional sesame seeds for garnish.
How should I prepare the Brussels sprouts before cooking?
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, cut them in half lengthwise, and remove any damaged outer leaves.
What is in the spicy soy glaze?
The glaze is a mixture of 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon chopped garlic.
How long should I marinate the Brussels sprouts?
Allow the sprouts to marinate in the prepared sauce for 3 to 6 minutes to ensure they absorb the flavors.
What temperature should I use to cook the sprouts?
Preheat a large stovetop pan over medium-high heat before adding the Brussels sprouts.
How do I get the Brussels sprouts to brown and caramelize?
Place the sprouts in the pan cut-side down and cook them for 7 to 9 minutes without stirring until they are nicely browned.
How long is the total cooking time?
The total cooking time is approximately 12 to 14 minutes: 7-9 minutes to brown the cut sides and another 5 minutes after stirring to ensure they are tender.
How can I tell when the Brussels sprouts are done?
The sprouts are ready when the bottoms are caramelized and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I add a garnish to this dish?
Yes, you can sprinkle sesame seeds over the top after removing the sprouts from the heat for added texture and flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, the inclusion of Sriracha sauce gives this dish a fiery, spicy kick.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including the soy sauce and mustard, are typically vegan-friendly.
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?
You can, but low-sodium is recommended to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty once the glaze reduces.
What type of mustard is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for Dijon mustard to provide a tangy and sharp flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it contains soy sauce which usually contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with Tamari or coconut aminos.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger with about 1 teaspoon of freshly minced ginger.
What should I do with the remaining marinade in the bowl?
You should pour any remaining sauce from the bowl over the sprouts once they are in the pan.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh and warm, you can prep and marinate the sprouts a few hours in advance.
How should I store leftover sprouts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the glaze's texture, or in a microwave if you are in a hurry.
What can I serve with these Brussels sprouts?
They pair excellently with grilled proteins like chicken, salmon, or tofu, or can be served as a standalone healthy snack.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh sprouts are highly recommended for this recipe to achieve the desired caramelization; frozen sprouts may become too soft.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients and fiber, and the recipe uses heart-healthy olive oil and limited sodium.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to use a large enough pan so the sprouts aren't overcrowded, otherwise they will steam instead of brown.
What does the garlic add to the dish?
The chopped garlic adds depth and warmth to the glaze, complementing the spicy and salty notes.
Is it okay to use olive oil for high-heat cooking?
Yes, olive oil works well for medium-high heat stovetop cooking in this recipe.
Can I reduce the Sriracha if I don't like spice?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder soy-glaze flavor.
Do I need to cover the pan while cooking?
The instructions do not require covering the pan; cooking them uncovered helps achieve the caramelized texture.
Why remove the outer leaves?
Removing damaged outer leaves ensures a clean presentation and removes any grit or tough textures.
Does this recipe contain any added sugar?
There is no added granulated sugar, though Sriracha sauce typically contains a small amount of sugar.