These Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts are a revelation, transforming a humble vegetable into a culinary delight. Tangy, delightfully crispy, and utterly delicious, this simple recipe offers a versatile option prepared easily in your air fryer and on the stovetop. Whether served as a vibrant appetizer, a perfect side dish for your favorite protein, or a satisfying meatless meal all on its own, these Brussels sprouts are guaranteed to impress. Even if you’ve previously been skeptical about Brussels sprouts, this sweet and sour rendition promises to convert you into an enthusiastic fan, showcasing just how incredibly flavorful they can be.
Discover the Magic of Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts
Transforming ordinary Brussels sprouts into an extraordinary dish is simpler than you think. This recipe utilizes the unique zest of Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts, air-fried to a perfect crispness with slightly browned edges. Once golden, they are lovingly coated in a homemade, pineapple-infused sweet and sour sauce, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that redefines how you’ll enjoy this cruciferous vegetable. Ready in mere minutes, these sweet and crispy Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile. They make an ideal side dish alongside any dinner, a captivating starter served on elegant cocktail picks, or a complete main course when served over fluffy rice or nutritious quinoa.
One of the many advantages of these flavorful little cabbages is their make-ahead convenience. Prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge for a few days, making meal prep a breeze. While I don’t recommend freezing them, as it can compromise their delightful texture, doubling the recipe for family gatherings or dinner parties is always a brilliant idea. Their distinctive sweet and sour profile makes them an outstanding addition to your holiday spread, pairing beautifully with festive turkey or ham.
For those seeking more innovative side dish options to complement their meals, explore these other delightful creations: this refreshing Five Bean Ham & Rice Salad, the indulgent Creamy Italian Four Bean Pasta Salad, or my exquisite Honey Bourbon Glazed Beets with Crispy Kale! Each offers a unique flavor experience to elevate your dining.
This post is sponsored by Paisley Farm Foods. My enthusiasm for their products and all opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
The Secret Ingredient: Paisley Farm Pickled Brussels Sprouts
The foundation of this sensational recipe lies in the quality of the Brussels sprouts themselves. While I specifically used Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts, their Hot Brussels Sprouts would also lend a fantastic kick for those who enjoy a spicier note. Paisley Farm’s Dilled Brussels Sprouts are renowned for being “dilled to perfection,” offering an impeccable balance of crunch and flavor that appeals to both dill enthusiasts and Brussels sprout lovers alike.
The distinctive tanginess of these pickled Brussels sprouts creates a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the homemade sweet and sour sauce, which is surprisingly easy to whip up from scratch. Paisley Farm Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile beyond this recipe. They can effortlessly replace ordinary pickles, adding a gourmet touch to a charcuterie board, enhancing a salad, or serving as an intriguing drink garnish. And, if you’re anything like us, you’ll find yourself enjoying them straight out of the jar! As an added bonus, they are dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan, making them a suitable choice for various dietary preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Air-Fried Pickled Brussels Sprouts with Sweet & Sour Sauce
Crafting these irresistible sweet and sour Brussels sprouts requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Sesame Oil: While olive oil can be used, sesame oil is highly recommended for its distinctive, nutty aroma that imparts a wonderful Asian-inspired flavor profile. It’s a staple in many of my fried rice recipes and stir-fries, so it’s a worthwhile addition to your pantry.
- Bell Pepper, diced: Any color of bell pepper will work beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the sauce. It also contributes to the texture, offering a slight crunch.
- Sugar: A combination of both white and brown sugar is used to create the complex sweetness that balances the tanginess of the sauce. White sugar provides a clean sweetness, while brown sugar adds depth with its molasses notes.
- Ketchup: This common condiment forms the rich, savory base of the sweet and sour sauce, contributing both sweetness and a hint of umami.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Crucial for the “sour” element, apple cider vinegar brings a fruity, sharp tanginess to the sauce. Be sure not to substitute it with balsamic or rice vinegar, as their flavor profiles are quite different and won’t yield the same result.
- Soy Sauce: I always opt for a low-sodium soy sauce to control the overall saltiness, allowing the other flavors to shine without being overwhelmed. It adds a vital savory, umami depth.
- Garlic Powder: A foundational flavor enhancer, garlic powder provides a consistent garlicky note throughout the sauce, complementing the other ingredients without being overpowering.
- Pineapple: Canned crushed pineapple, drained, is my preferred choice for convenience and consistent texture. Remember to reserve the juice for later use! Pineapple tidbits can also be used, adding a different textural element to the sweet and sour sauce.
- Reserved Pineapple Juice combined with 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch: This mixture is essential for thickening the sauce, giving it that classic, glossy consistency that beautifully coats the Brussels sprouts.
- Green Onions: Optional but highly recommended for garnish, thinly sliced green onions add a fresh, pungent finish and a touch of vibrant green.
- Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show! One 24-ounce jar, drained and cut in half lengthwise, provides the perfect pickled tang and firm texture that holds up well to air frying.
Simple Steps to Creating Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts Perfection
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare a batch of these delectable sweet and sour Brussels sprouts, bursting with flavor and delightful texture.
First, carefully drain the Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts from their pickling liquid. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise. This ensures that the stem part remains intact, holding the sprout together during cooking, and also creates more surface area for that delicious crisping.
In a large bowl, combine the cider vinegar, both white and brown sugars, ketchup, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and the sugars begin to dissolve. This forms the base of your flavorful sweet and sour sauce.
Heat 2 teaspoons of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the diced bell peppers and sauté them for approximately 5 minutes, or until they soften slightly. This will bring out their natural sweetness and a tender-crisp texture.
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the softened bell peppers.
Continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it becomes bubbly and all the sugars have fully dissolved, creating a smooth and cohesive base.
Stir the crushed pineapple into the skillet, infusing the sauce with its sweet and tangy flavor.
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Add this thickening mixture to the simmering sauce in the skillet, stirring continuously. Watch as the sauce transforms, gradually thickening to a desirable consistency. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low to keep the sauce warm while you prepare the Brussels sprouts.
Now, it’s time to air fry the Brussels sprouts to golden perfection. Add the halved Brussels sprouts in an even layer to the basket of your air fryer. Drizzle them with the remaining 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. Shake the basket well to ensure each sprout half is lightly coated with the oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
Set your air fryer temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Air fry the sprouts for an initial 6 minutes. After this time, remove the basket, give it a good shake to redistribute the sprouts, and cook them for another 6 minutes. Check for doneness – the sprouts should be tender on the inside with deliciously crispy, slightly charred edges. If you prefer them even crispier, continue cooking for an additional minute or two, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
*Note that cooking times can vary significantly between different air fryer models. The first time you prepare this recipe, monitor the sprouts closely and make a note of the specific cooking duration that works best for your appliance.
Truth be told, the first time I made these, I ended up eating half the batch straight out of the air fryer before I even finished the sauce! They are incredibly addictive and delicious on their own, a testament to the magic of air-frying pickled Brussels sprouts.
Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy, transfer them to a serving bowl. Pour the warm sweet and sour sauce generously over the air-fried Brussels sprouts.
Toss everything together until each Brussels sprout is thoroughly coated in the luscious, glistening sauce.
Garnish with fresh green onions, if desired, for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately as a delightful appetizer, a compelling side dish, or serve them over a bed of rice for a satisfying main meal designed for two.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels Sprouts
Here are some common questions about Brussels sprouts and how to make them taste their absolute best:
- What takes the bitterness out of Brussels sprouts? The natural bitterness in Brussels sprouts comes from compounds called glucosinolates. To reduce this bitterness, a great technique is to cut fresh Brussels sprouts in half. This exposes more surface area, allowing them to brown or caramelize during cooking. The caramelization process creates new, sweeter flavors that beautifully offset any inherent bitterness.
- Are Brussels sprouts good or bad for you? Brussels sprouts are undeniably good for you and an excellent addition to a healthy diet. They are packed with dietary fiber, essential vitamins (like Vitamin K and C), and various minerals. Their nutritional density makes them a powerful, health-boosting vegetable.
- What gives Brussels sprouts a better taste? As mentioned, Brussels sprouts contain glucosinolates, which act as a natural defense mechanism against pests, resulting in their bitter flavor. To enhance their taste, you can introduce complementary flavors. Roasting or air frying them until caramelized significantly improves their flavor. Additionally, rich sauces – like our sweet and sour sauce – or additions like bacon, garlic, or a touch of honey can profoundly enrich and balance their unique taste, turning them into a dish everyone will enjoy.
Creative Substitutions and Variations
Don’t hesitate to personalize this Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts recipe with these exciting suggestions to match your palate or whatever you have on hand:
- Add Protein: Elevate the dish by mixing in some diced cooked bacon or ham. The salty, savory notes will wonderfully complement the sweet and sour flavors.
- Introduce Crunch: For an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor, throw in some slivered almonds, sesame seeds, or pumpkin seeds. For the best flavor, lightly toast these nuts or seeds in a small dry saucepan before adding them to the dish.
- Boost Umami: A touch of fish sauce, a common seasoning in East Asian cooking, can add a deeper, saltier, and more complex umami profile to the dish, enhancing its overall richness.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some black pepper or red pepper flakes to taste. Alternatively, for a bolder, spicier version, use Paisley Farm Food’s Hot Brussels Sprouts instead of the Dilled variety.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
Ensure your Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts are perfect every time with these handy tips and tricks:
Keeping Warm: To keep your air-fried Brussels sprouts warm while you finish preparing the rest of your meal, simply transfer them in a single layer to a rimmed baking sheet and place them in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Alternatively, you can turn your air fryer back on for just a minute or two right before serving. The warm sweet and sour sauce will also help reheat them beautifully upon coating.
Pineapple Alternatives: If you don’t have canned crushed pineapple readily available, fresh pineapple can certainly be used. Just process it in a food processor or finely dice it by hand to achieve a similar crushed texture for the sauce.
Batch Cooking Sauce: Consider making a double batch of the sweet and sour sauce. It stores wonderfully in the fridge for several days, ready to be added to your next stir-fry or to quickly whip up this delightful Brussels sprout meal again for your family.
The Legacy of Paisley Farm Foods
Paisley Farm has been a trusted name in kitchens since 1945, consistently delivering quality and flavor. Their enduring recipe for success is delightfully straightforward: they meticulously work with the freshest vegetables, ensuring their products are always readily available and exceptional when you need them. From farm-fresh harvests directly to your family’s table, Paisley Farm embodies a commitment to taste and convenience that has spanned generations.
Beyond their celebrated Dilled and Hot Brussels Sprouts, I highly recommend exploring their other fantastic offerings. Be sure to try their Sweet Pickled Beets, their renowned Signature Collection of Bean Salads, and their exquisite Organic Marinated Mushrooms! Each product promises the same dedication to quality and flavor you’ve come to expect from Paisley Farm.
Now that you’ve discovered the joy of pickled Brussels sprouts, expand your culinary repertoire by learning how to cook fresh Brussels sprouts in the air fryer, too! You can find my detailed air fryer Brussels sprouts recipe here. And for even more delicious ideas, explore a wealth of other Brussels sprouts recipes here. Get ready to embrace this versatile vegetable in all its forms!
- Dilled Brussels Sprouts Dip (pictured above)
- Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Dip
- Bacon Wrapped Hot Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts Gratin
- Greek Cauliflower Rice Salad with Brussels Sprouts
Where to Find Paisley Farm Foods
To explore more tantalizing recipes, discover their full range of products, and locate a store near you, visit the official Paisley Farm Foods website. Stay connected and inspired by following Paisley Farm on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for a continuous stream of delicious recipes and product updates throughout the year.
Explore All My Recipes Featuring Paisley Farm Products!
This recipe for sweet and sour Brussels sprouts offers a delightful addition to any meal, proving that these often-misunderstood vegetables can be truly irresistible. They are undeniably a fantastic way to convert even the most ardent Brussels sprouts skeptics into devoted fans. Prepare a batch for your family and discover their new favorite side dish!
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Print Recipe
Sweet & Sour Brussels Sprouts (Air Fryer)
Equipment
- Bamboo Skewers
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
- Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Oven Digital and Programmable, Nonstick (35050), 2.5 Liters, Black
- COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, 5.8QT
- Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts, 24oz (Pack of 6)
Ingredients
- 4 teaspoons sesame oil divided
- 1/2 cup bell pepper diced
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 1/2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 1/2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 2 1/2 Tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
- 3/4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple drained – reserve juice
- 1 Tablespoon pineapple juice combined with 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- green onions for garnish if desired
- 1 24-ounce jar Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts, drained and cut in half
Instructions
- Begin by draining the Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts and cutting them in half length-wise. That keeps them intact with the stem part of the sprout.
- Whisk vinegar together with sugars, ketchup, garlic powder, and soy sauce in a large bowl.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and saute for 5 minutes or until they soften.
- Add in the sauce mixture.
- Cook until bubbly and sugars are dissolved.
- Add the crushed pineapple to the skillet.
- Whisk together the pineapple juice and cornstarch and add the mixture to the sauce, and stir as it thickens.
- Keep the sauce warm while you prepare your Brussels Sprouts in the air fryer.
- Add the sliced Brussels Sprouts in an even layer to the basket of your air fryer and drizzle them with 2 teaspoons of Sesame oil. Shake the basket to coat them.
- Set the temperature to 375 degrees and air fry the sprouts for 6 minutes. Shake the basket again and cook them for another 6 minutes. Check for doneness. The sprouts will be soft inside but crispy around the edges when done. They may need another minute or two to get them to your liking.
- Pour the sauce over the air fried Brussels Sprouts. Mix well until they are all coated.
- Garnish with green onions if desired.
- Serve as is for an appetizer, side dish, or over rice for a main meal for two.