Gluten-free option, Nut-free
These Brussels sprouts are easy to make and super simple, requiring just four main ingredients. Roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed in a gochujang sauce for a delicious spicy and slightly sweet dish. Pair this side with our Cold Peanut Noodles or Spicy Braised Tofu.
Gochujang Brussels Sprouts is a delectable and vibrant dish that brings together the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with the wholesome goodness of Brussels sprouts. This recipe takes the often-overlooked Brussels sprouts and transforms them into a spicy and savory delight that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
At its core, Gochujang Brussels Sprouts is a fusion of textures and tastes. The Brussels sprouts are halved and roasted to perfection, resulting in a tender interior and a slightly crispy exterior. The roasting process brings out their inherent sweetness and creates a wonderful contrast to the forthcoming spicy kick.
The star of the show is gochujang, a fermented red chili paste that’s a staple in Korean cooking. Gochujang adds complexity and depth to the dish, infusing it with its distinct umami and spiciness. The combination of gochujang with sesame oil and mirin (a sweet rice wine) forms a well-balanced sauce that coats the roasted Brussels sprouts. This sauce not only imparts a rich flavor but also provides a glossy and inviting appearance to the dish.
The final touch of sesame seeds adds a delicate crunch and nuttiness, elevating the overall texture and presentation of the Gochujang Brussels Sprouts. The contrast between the slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts and the fiery gochujang sauce creates a harmonious balance that keeps you coming back for more.
Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a plant-based main course, Gochujang Brussels Sprouts are a testament to how creativity in the kitchen can transform humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This dish is a wonderful example of how experimenting with different flavors and cuisines can result in a delightful and unexpected culinary experience. Whether you’re a fan of Korean food or just looking to try something new, Gochujang Brussels Sprouts offer a unique and satisfying flavor journey that’s bound to please both your palate and your senses.
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
COOK TIME: 30 to 35 minutes
YIELD: 2 to 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- Canola or olive oil (or spray version), for pan
- 1 lb (453 g) Brussels sprouts
- 3 tbsp (54 g) gochujang (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp (10 ml) mirin
- Sesame seeds, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°F) and oil a baking sheet with canola or olive oil.
- Chop the Brussels sprouts in half. Place them, cut side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Remember to flip them halfway through the roasting time.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the gochujang, sesame oil, and mirin. Whisk the ingredients together until well mixed.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven and immediately stir them into the prepared sauce. Make sure the Brussels sprouts are well coated with the sauce.
- To serve, transfer the coated Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
