If you’re on the hunt for a delectable and hassle-free recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with delight, look no further. Enter the world of crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon. This mouthwatering dish combines the irresistible crispiness of perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of crispy bacon. With just a few simple steps, you can transform these humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving for more. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a flavor-packed adventure like no other.
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts: Fresh and flavorful Brussels sprouts are the star ingredient of this dish. Make sure to choose firm and bright green Brussels sprouts for the best results.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious smoky and salty flavor to the Brussels sprouts. You can use any type of bacon you prefer, such as traditional pork bacon or turkey bacon.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the Brussels sprouts while adding a hint of richness.
- Salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the dish a subtle kick and adds depth to the overall taste.
Preparation
Preparing Brussels sprouts
To start, wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the tough ends and remove any loose leaves. If the Brussels sprouts are large, you may want to cut them in half to ensure even cooking.
Cooking bacon
Take the bacon slices and cut them into small pieces. A useful tip is to use kitchen scissors, as it makes the process quick and easy. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the bacon until it turns crispy and golden brown. Drain the excess grease on a paper towel.
Preheating the air fryer
Before you begin preparing the Brussels sprouts, preheat your air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This step ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
Making Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Bacon preparation
As mentioned before, cut the bacon into small pieces. This step allows the fat to render properly during cooking, resulting in crispy and flavorful bacon.
Step 2: Preparing Brussels sprouts
Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, removing any loose leaves. If desired, cut the Brussels sprouts in half for even cooking.
Step 3: Tossing Brussels sprouts with olive oil
Place the Brussels sprouts in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them gently to ensure all the Brussels sprouts are coated evenly with the oil. The olive oil helps in achieving that crispy texture and prevents the sprouts from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Step 4: Adding seasonings
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the Brussels sprouts. This step adds a pleasant savory flavor to the dish and enhances the taste of the vegetables.
Step 5: Combining Brussels sprouts with bacon
Once the bacon and Brussels sprouts are prepared, it’s time to combine them. Add the cooked bacon to the bowl of seasoned Brussels sprouts and toss everything together gently. The bacon will lend its delicious smoky flavor to the sprouts.
Step 6: Air frying
Now that the Brussels sprouts are well-coated with oil and seasoned, it’s time to air fry them. Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The Brussels sprouts should turn golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Variations
Serving suggestions
To serve these crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon, you can simply transfer them to a serving dish or plate. They make a fantastic side dish for any meal, whether it be for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You can also serve them as an appetizer or snack.
Variations
While this recipe is delicious as it is, feel free to get creative and add your own twist to it. You can experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Additionally, you can customize the crispy factor of the Brussels sprouts by adjusting the cooking time in the air fryer to your preference.
Tips and Tricks
Choosing fresh Brussels sprouts
When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for ones that are firm and have a bright green color. Avoid any that have yellow or wilted leaves, as this could indicate that they are not as fresh.
Crispier bacon
For extra crispy bacon, you can bake it separately in the oven before adding it to the Brussels sprouts. Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet and cook them at 400°F (200°C) for around 10-12 minutes until they are nicely browned and crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop the bacon and add it to the air fryer with the Brussels sprouts.
Customizing seasonings
Feel free to play around with the seasonings in this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional spices, such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Enhancing flavors
To enhance the flavors of the dish, you can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the crispy Brussels sprouts and bacon right after they come out of the air fryer. The cheese will melt slightly and add a delightful cheesy taste to the dish.
Health Benefits
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to heart health.
Bacon
While bacon does add flavor to the dish, it is important to note that it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content. Opt for leaner options, such as turkey bacon or lower-sodium bacon, if you are looking for healthier alternatives.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. However, keep in mind that frozen Brussels sprouts may not have the same crispiness as fresh ones. Be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with vegetarian bacon alternatives, such as tempeh bacon or coconut bacon. These alternatives can still provide a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
Can I modify the cooking time in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the Brussels sprouts and personal preference. If you prefer them slightly softer, you can reduce the cooking time, while increasing it will result in a crispier texture. Keep an eye on them while cooking to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delicious and healthy side dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of crisp Brussels sprouts with smoky bacon creates a delightful flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you serve them as a side dish or enjoy them as a snack, these Brussels sprouts are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and variations to make this recipe your own. Enjoy!
