Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli is a delightful dish that beautifully balances crunchy textures and vibrant flavors. Ideal as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish, this recipe transforms Brussels sprouts into golden bites of joy, enhanced by a tangy and creamy lemon aioli. Whether you are a Brussels sprouts skeptic or a long-time lover, this recipe will surely win you over with its irresistible appeal.
Why We Love This Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
This recipe ticks all the boxes for food lovers. First, the Brussels sprouts become irresistibly crispy, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite. The light frying method locks in the vegetable’s natural flavors while adding a hint of golden perfection. Pairing this dish with lemon aioli not only elevates the taste but also introduces a refreshing acidity that complements the rich flavors of the fried sprouts. It’s the perfect combination for those who appreciate a mix of textures and tastes—savory, tangy, and creamy all in one bite!
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
- 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Make Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
To begin this culinary adventure, the first step is making the lemon aioli. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Once prepared, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld while you focus on frying the Brussels sprouts.
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture, so use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully add the halved Brussels sprouts in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy sprouts instead of crispy ones.
Fry the Brussels sprouts for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn deep golden brown and develop a wonderful crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried sprouts to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy. Immediately season the sprouts with kosher salt and black pepper while they’re still hot to enhance their flavor.
Serve the crispy Brussels sprouts hot, accompanied by the chilled lemon aioli for dipping. This vibrant combination is sure to impress family and friends alike!
How to Serve Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
When it comes to serving your Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli, presentation is key. Arrange the fried Brussels sprouts on a beautiful serving platter, allowing their golden hues to shine. You can garnish the dish with additional lemon zest or even fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added color and flavor.
For a fun and interactive dining experience, place the bowl of lemon aioli in the center of the platter. Encourage your guests to dip the crispy sprouts into the aioli, making each bite even more enjoyable. These crispy sprouts also make a great accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish dishes, adding a delightful crunch to your meal. Whether it’s for game day, a festive gathering, or a cozy family dinner, this dish is versatile and sure to be a hit.
Expert Tips: Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
To ensure you achieve the best results for your Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: The fresher your Brussels sprouts, the better the flavor. Look for firm, vibrant greens without any yellow or wilting leaves.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature as you fry. If it cools down too much, the sprouts won’t fry properly. If it’s too hot, they may burn. A consistent temperature results in the perfect crispy texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure that each Brussels sprout gets evenly cooked. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Season Immediately: Season your fried sprouts right after removing them from the oil to ensure the salt and pepper stick properly for optimal flavor.
- Make the Aioli Ahead of Time: Preparing the lemon aioli a few hours before serving allows the flavors to develop, making it even more delicious when you finally dig in.
How to Store Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
If you happen to have any leftover crispy Brussels sprouts, proper storage will ensure they maintain their quality for later enjoyment. Allow the fried sprouts to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating should be done in an oven or an air fryer to restore their crispiness. Simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Brussels sprouts for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Unfortunately, microwaving them may lead to sogginess, so avoid that method if you want to keep the crunch intact.
The lemon aioli can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it is in a tightly sealed container.
Variations of Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different with your Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts, consider these creative variations:
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot Brussels sprouts right after frying for an extra layer of flavor. You could also try crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate various spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or a chili seasoning blend into your fried Brussels sprouts for added kick.
- Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle a bit of honey over the fried sprouts before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice spicy note.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts, such as chopped almonds or walnuts, after frying for a delightful crunch and richness.
- Herbed Aioli: Try adding fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil into the lemon aioli for varied flavor profiles that can complement the fried sprouts beautifully.
FAQ
Can I make Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli in advance?
Yes, while it’s best to serve them fresh for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the aioli ahead of time and fry the Brussels sprouts just before serving.
How do I keep the Brussels sprouts crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, avoid storing them in an airtight container for an extended period and reheat them in the oven or air fryer, not the microwave.
What can I serve with Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli?
These crispy sprouts pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even be enjoyed on their own as a snack. They make a fantastic appetizer for any gathering.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can try air frying or baking the Brussels sprouts instead of deep frying for a healthier version. The dipping sauce can also be made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor, as frozen ones may not crisp as well upon frying. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and dried before cooking.
Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved Use fresh, vibrant Brussels sprouts for the best flavor.
- 3 cups vegetable oil for frying Maintain oil temperature for optimal crispiness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Season the sprouts immediately after frying.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Add more to taste.
Lemon Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Acts as the base for the aioli.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Brings freshness to the aioli.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest Enhances the lemon flavor.
- 1 small clove garlic, minced Adds depth to the aioli.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt Season to taste.
- pinch cayenne pepper (optional) Customize the spiciness.
Instructions
Prepare the Lemon Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Cover and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld.
Fry the Brussels Sprouts
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Add halved Brussels sprouts in small batches, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Immediately season with kosher salt and black pepper while hot.
Serve
- Arrange the crispy Brussels sprouts on a serving platter.
- Serve hot with the chilled lemon aioli for dipping.
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