Growing up, I was one of those weird kids who loved vegetables. Well, except cooked carrots. Unless they were chopped up really small, I was never a big fan. And even now, I still think carrots are a million times better raw.
My friends, on the other hand, were a lot more picky, and their most hated vegetable of all was actually one of my favorites – brussels sprouts. It’s not surprising considering their rather strong taste and the fact that parents always seemed to steam brussels sprouts and serve them plain. That’s asking a lot of your kids.
Brussels sprouts need a little dressing up. A drizzle of oil, some salt, and they most certainly need to have the bitter stems trimmed off. That step is half the battle.
My current favorite way to prepare bussels sprouts is to chop them in half, coat them in a mixture of olive oil, Braggs, maple syrup, and crushed garlic, and then roast them until they’re tender. The maple syrup is key here, as it caramelizes to create the perfect combination of savory and sweet.
But more than the actual brussels sprout halves, I love the stray leaves that fall off in the process and bake up into crispy, flavor-packed bites. So, the last time I found myself standing over the stove, picking out all of the crunchy little pieces and trying not to burn my fingers, I had a very exciting thought. Why not make an entire pan full of crispy, baked brussels sprout leaves?
This was one of the best ideas I had all last week, which is either really impressive or really lame, depending on how much you like brussels sprouts.
I’m going with impressive.
- 1 Pound Brussels Sprouts
- 1 Tbs. Olive Oil
- 2 Tbs. Braggs Liquid Aminos (or soy sauce)
- 2 Tbs. Pure Maple Syrup
- 2 Cloves Garlic, crushed
- Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- To make the dressing, whisk together olive oil, Braggs, maple syrup, and garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Prepare the brussels sprouts by chopping the ends off. You’ll want to chop about ⅓ of the stem side off.
- Peel off the leaves and place them in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the brussels sprout leaves and toss to combine.
- Transfer to your prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until nice and crispy.
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Were you a picky eater as a kid? What’s your favorite way to prepare brussels sprouts?
{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
Oh my gosh, this is like kale chips in brussels sprout form. Love it!
I had that exact thought after I posted!
I can’t get enough of roasted Brussels sprouts. I just recently discovered them, too – they’re addicting!
Roasted brussels sprouts are like candy to me. Most people would think I’m a crazy person for saying that, but I’m sure you understand. (:
They’re so delicious!
I completely understand!
all those years when I was a kid that I thought I was supposed (emphasis not able to be added) to -hate -one -certain- food -so -I -just -randomly -said- “brussels sprouts” -to -follow- the- crowd were a WASTE! cuz I love them! and I know I would love these! what a beautiful post, Amanda, thank you! – jasper
haha I think a lot of kids do that!
SUCH a good idea because, yes, those crispy leaves are what vegetable dreams are made of!!
Ditto to the kale chip comment. Lately I’ve been on a brussels sprouts kick and these look perfect for a snack.
Made this tonight too and it was soooo delish! Some of it was a little burned but otherwise it was incredible!
There’s definitely a fine line between burnt and perfectly crispy (and it happens in a matter of seconds!). haha So glad you liked it!
The name of your site alone drew me in. What a great title, and delicious food. My mouth is watering and it is 7:18am.
I can’t wait to try some of these recipes. Thank you for sharing your delicious food.
Jeff
Thanks, Jeff! I love the name of your blog too!
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