Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts: Crispy Copycat Recipe for Brussels Lovers

If there’s one thing the folks at Red Lobster know how to do, it’s how to take a humble vegetable and turn it into the star of the show. Their Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts, for instance, are simply to die for. They’re crispy, they’re flavorful, and they’re the perfect side dish to any of the seafood delicacies on the menu. But did you know that you can recreate this magic in your own kitchen? Yes, indeed! This blog post will guide you through a copycat recipe, providing you with a step-by-step process to make your very own version of Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts.

Why Choose Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts?

Brussels sprouts might not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to vegetables, but when prepared the Red Lobster way, even the pickiest eaters find it hard to resist. The sprouts are transformed into a crispy exterior, with an inside that’s tender and bursting with flavors, thanks to the delicious soy-ginger glaze. Simply put, the Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts are a perfect combination of texture and taste. Plus, they’re a great option for anyone following a keto diet or a low carb diet.

Choosing the Perfect Brussels Sprouts

Start with fresh brussels sprouts for the best results. Look for bright green sprouts that are firm to the touch. The leaves should be tightly packed, and the cut side should be white or light green. Remember, the size of the sprouts can impact the cooking process. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and cook faster, while larger ones have a more robust flavor and require a longer cooking time.

Preparing Your Brussels Sprouts

Once you’ve got your fresh brussel sprouts, you’ll want to trim the ends and cut them in half. This not only increases the surface area for the perfect searing surface but also allows the flavors of the seasoning to permeate deeper into the sprouts. Don’t forget to remove any loose or browning leaves.

Creating the Soy-Ginger Glaze

The secret to the flavor explosion in the Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts is the soy-ginger glaze. It’s a sticky soy glaze that has the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and fragrant notes. You’ll need soy-based product, brown sugar, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Combine these ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened.

Cooking Your Brussels Sprouts

The key to achieving the iconic Red Lobster crispy Brussels sprouts lies in the cooking method. You’ll want to roast your prepared sprouts on a hot baking sheet in the oven. This technique ensures a crispy exterior and a tender inside. Remember to turn the sprouts cut side down for a better roast and to keep an eye on the oven temperature.

Frying Your Brussels Sprouts

For an extra level of crispiness, consider frying your Brussels sprouts in an air fryer or a hot pan with some avocado oil. This method gives the sprouts a golden brown color and a crispy fried onions texture that takes the dish to the next level. Just ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.

Adding the Final Touches

Once your Brussels sprouts are cooked and crispy, it’s time for the final touches. Drizzle some of the soy-ginger glaze over the hot sprouts and toss them gently to coat. To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the top. The cheese will melt slightly, giving your Brussels sprouts a cheesy, salty finish that perfectly complements the sweet and sticky glaze.

Storing Your Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in a hot pan or in the oven. Just be sure not to reheat them in the microwave, as this can make the sprouts soggy.

Next Time, Try More Red Lobster Dishes

This copycat recipe for Red Lobster Brussel Sprouts is just the beginning. There’s a whole world of Red Lobster dishes waiting to be explored. From the Red Lobster shrimp scampi to the garlic Parmesan Brussel sprouts, the possibilities are endless. So, the next time you’re craving some seafood or a delicious side dish, don’t forget that you can turn your kitchen into your own personal Red Lobster!