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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe Easy Homemade Balsamic Glaze

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This recipe delivers crispy Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick, healthy side dish with a crunchy texture and caramelized finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar (good-quality aged balsamic)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 g) of Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise, aiming for similar sizes so they cook evenly.
  2. Place the halved sprouts in a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and optionally 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat all sprouts evenly.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run empty for 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cut side down if possible. Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the sprouts halfway through (around 7-8 minutes), until deep golden-brown with crispy edges.
  5. While the sprouts cook, pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup if using. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce for about 7-10 minutes until thickened and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  6. Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the top and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

Shake or stir the sprouts a couple more times during cooking if your air fryer cooks unevenly. Keep an eye on the balsamic reduction to avoid burning; it should be syrupy but not sticky-hard. For best crispiness, cook sprouts cut side down first. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes to regain crispiness. Microwave reheating is not recommended as it makes sprouts soggy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, air fryer, balsamic glaze, crispy, healthy side, low-carb, gluten-free, vegan option

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/crispy-air-fryer-brussels-sprouts-recipe-easy-homemade-balsamic-glaze/