Are you tired of bland, mushy Brussels sprouts that make everyone at the table groan? Prepare to revolutionize your vegetable game with this mouthwatering Skillet Braised Brussels Sprouts recipe that transforms these tiny green gems into a crispy, caramelized delicacy that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a side dish so delicious, it might just steal the spotlight from the main course.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing them thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the tough stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring they are clean and uniform in size.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to shimmer and become hot, which will help create a beautiful golden-brown sear on the Brussels sprouts.
- Carefully place the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer across the skillet. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, letting them develop a deep golden-brown caramelization.
- Season the Brussels sprouts with salt and freshly ground black pepper while they are cooking. The seasoning will enhance their natural flavors.
- Once the cut sides are nicely browned, gently flip the Brussels sprouts using tongs to ensure even cooking on the other side.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, which will help steam and braise the Brussels sprouts, making them tender and adding additional flavor.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let the Brussels sprouts braise for 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the lid and allow any remaining liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavors and ensuring a slight crispness to the sprouts.
- Finish the dish by drizzling fresh lemon juice over the Brussels sprouts, which will add brightness and help cut through the richness of the caramelized vegetables.
- Transfer the braised Brussels sprouts to a serving platter, and taste for final seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without yellow leaves or brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Size Matters: Trim and halve the sprouts evenly to ensure consistent cooking and beautiful caramelization.
- Use High Heat Initially: Start with medium-high heat to achieve that gorgeous golden-brown sear that creates deep, complex flavors.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook Brussels sprouts in a single layer to guarantee proper caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Listen to the Sizzle: The sound of sprouts searing tells you they're developing a perfect crispy exterior.
- Liquid is Key: The vegetable broth helps steam and tenderize the sprouts while adding extra flavor depth.
- Finish with Acid: The lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the caramelized vegetables.
- Serve Immediately: These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to maintain their crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
