Peanut Sauce Drizzled Charred Brussels Sprouts

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"Peanut Sauce Drizzled Charred Brussels Sprouts is a delightful and flavorful dish that blends the smoky char of roasted Brussels sprouts with the rich, creamy tang of peanut sauce. It’s finished with a sprinkle of green onions and red pepper flakes to add freshness and heat to the dish."
-- @hecooksco

Recipe Description

Peanut Sauce Drizzled Charred Brussels Sprouts perfectly marries the rustic charm of charred vegetables with the sophisticated richness of a creamy, nut-infused sauce. This culinary creation takes humble Brussels sprouts, often overlooked on dinner plates, and transforms them into the show’s stars, showcasing the magic that can happen in the kitchen with a bit of creativity and flavor. The dish starts with fresh and firm Brussels sprouts, which are halved to expose the inner layers to the embrace of olive oil and the oven’s intense heat. Roasted at 450°F, the sprouts undergo a delightful transformation that gives them a deep, golden hue and a crispy texture on the outside. At the same time, the inside softens and releases its inherent sweetness, which contrasts perfectly with the smoky bitterness of the char. The peanut sauce drizzled generously over the hot, charred sprouts is a masterpiece of balance and flavor. It starts with smooth peanut butter, which forms the base of the sauce, and is then combined with soy sauce to add depth and savory complexity that contrasts with the sweetness of the peanut butter. Honey or brown sugar is added to introduce a gentle sweetness that rounds out the saltiness of the soy sauce. Lime juice cuts through the sauce’s richness with its bright acidity, while minced garlic and grated ginger add a spicy kick that awakens the palate. The dish’s interplay of textures and temperatures makes it truly unforgettable. With their charred edges and tender hearts, the warm Brussels sprouts become the perfect canvas for the excellent, smooth peanut sauce. The contrast is striking; each bite is a delightful dance of warm vegetables, fantastic sauce, crispy char, and creamy smoothness. Incorporating optional garnishes such as thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can considerably enhance the visual appeal and flavor of the dish. The green onions provide a pop of color and a crisp, tangy taste that balances the Brussels sprouts’ earthy sweetness and the peanut sauce’s richness. The red pepper flakes add a touch of heat that complements the creamy, nutty flavors, creating a well-balanced and flavorful dish. Peanut Sauce Drizzled Charred Brussels Sprouts is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that showcases the versatility of vegetables when treated with imagination and care, the global pantry that inspires the peanut sauce, and the joy of eating food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a main course, it promises to bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of culinary adventure to any table it graces.
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  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 10mins
Cook time: 20mins
Serves or Makes: 4

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts

  • 1 pound trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • to taste salt and ground black pepper
  • for garnish chopped green onion
  • for garnish red pepper flakes

ingredients

For the Peanut Sauce

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 clove of minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • as needed warm water

Method

  • Step 1

    Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C).

  • Step 2

    Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper until they are evenly coated.

  • Step 3

    Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they’re not too crowded. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are charred to your liking. Halfway through, stir them or shake the pan to ensure even charring on all sides.

  • Step 4

    Make the Peanut Sauce: While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the peanut sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Gradually add warm water until the sauce reaches a desirable, pourable consistency.

  • Step 5

    Check the Brussels Sprouts: Keep an eye on the sprouts as they cook, looking for that perfect charred exterior and tender inside. Adjust the roasting time if necessary, depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts.

  • Step 6

    Serve: Once the Brussels sprouts are charred to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm peanut sauce generously over the top. If desired, garnish with chopped green onion and red pepper flakes.

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