Is chili crisp vegan?

Most of the time, yes, but there are some exceptions. Check the label before purchasing. Some brands may include dried shrimp, pork, or other animal-derived ingredients.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level will depend on the chili crisp you’re using. For a milder version, use 2 tablespoons chili crisp plus 2 tablespoons of the oil from the top of the jar. For extra heat, add another tablespoon of the crisp from the bottom of the jar.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

It’s not ideal. Since frozen sprouts carry more excess water than fresh ones, you won’t get the same crisp edges. If it’s your only option, you can roast them at 425ºF from frozen for an extra 5-10 minutes.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Air fry at 400ºF for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Toss them in the glaze in a separate bowl after cooking. Depending on your air fryer size, you’ll likely need to work in batches. As with roasting, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Can I prep these ahead?

You can trim and halve the sprouts and make the glaze 2 days in advance. Keep both stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. These are best served right after roasting, so cook and coat with the sauce right before serving.

Maple Chili Crisp Brussels Sprouts

Name: Maple Chili Crisp Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 2 tablespoons neutral oil (we recommend avocado); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chili crisp; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 1 garlic clove, grated; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Description

These Maple Chili Crisp Brussels Sprouts turn a boring vegetable side dish into something people actually crave. Roast cut-side down so the edges caramelize beautifully, then toss them in a sweet, spicy glaze for a flavor-packed dish the whole family will love. The best part is that it’s easy to make and works as both a holiday side and a base for your favorite rice and protein bowl.

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts

2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons neutral oil (we recommend avocado)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Maple Chili Crisp Glaze

1/4 cup chili crisp
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
1 garlic clove, grated

For Serving

2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Preheat and prep. Preheat the oven to 425ºF and place a large rimmed baking sheet inside while it heats. Starting with a hot pan gives you a much better sear on the cut sides.
Season the sprouts. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast cut side down. Carefully remove the hot baking sheet and arrange the sprouts in a single layer, cut side down. Leave room, and use two pans if needed. Crowding makes them soft instead of crispy. Roast for 22 to 25 minutes, until the cut sides are deeply browned and the outer leaves are dark and crackly.
Whisk the glaze. While the sprouts roast, stir together the chili crisp, maple syrup, rice vinegar, tamari, sesame oil, and grated garlic in a small bowl.
Toss while hot. Transfer the roasted sprouts to a large bowl and pour over the glaze. Toss until every piece is coated. Doing this off the pan keeps the sugars from scorching.
Finish and serve. Spread the sprouts onto a serving platter and top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Check your chili crisp: Most jarred chili crisps are vegan, but some brands include dried shrimp or pork, so check the label. Brands also vary a lot in heat and salt, so taste your glaze before tossing.
Dial the heat: For a milder version, use 2 tablespoons of chili crisp plus 2 tablespoons of the oil from the top of the jar. For more heat, add an extra tablespoon of the solids from the bottom.
Air fryer method: Cook at 400ºF for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, then toss with the glaze as directed.
Make it ahead: Trim and halve the sprouts and mix the glaze up to 2 days in advance, then roast and toss right before serving.
Serve them right away: These are best within about 15 minutes of tossing. The glaze softens the crisp edges the longer they sit.
Make it a meal: Add roasted sweet potato cubes and crispy tofu, then serve over rice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes