Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe – Garlic & Pomegranate Glaze

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe – Garlic & Pomegranate Glaze

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s become a total weeknight staple at my place. Seriously, these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are so good, even Brussels sprout skeptics end up asking for seconds! They’re crispy, flavorful, and come together in under 20 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be real, Brussels sprouts sometimes get a bad rap. But when cooked right – and the air fryer is perfect for this – they’re unbelievably delicious. This recipe takes it a step further with a simple garlic and pomegranate glaze that adds a touch of sweetness and tang. It’s a flavor combination that just works. Plus, it’s super easy, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing air fryer Brussels sprouts:

• 1 lb (about 450g) Brussels sprouts
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) pomegranate arils

Ingredient Notes

Okay, let’s talk ingredients for a sec. A few little things can make a big difference!

Pomegranate Arils – Regional Use & Benefits

Pomegranate is a fruit deeply rooted in Indian cuisine and culture! Known as anaar in Hindi, it’s often enjoyed as a snack, in raita (yogurt dip), or even used to add a vibrant touch to desserts. Beyond the delicious flavor, pomegranate seeds are packed with antioxidants and vitamins – a little boost of goodness in every bite. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons of these ruby-red jewels.

Olive Oil Quality

Using a good quality extra virgin olive oil really shines through in the final flavor. I prefer one with a fruity, slightly peppery taste.

Brussels Sprouts Selection

Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and tightly packed. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender. Don’t be afraid if they have a little bit of yellowing – it doesn’t affect the taste!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, give your Brussels sprouts a good wash. Trim the ends and halve them. Then, pop them into a bowl of water for about 10 minutes. This helps them get extra crispy! Drain them well after their little soak.
2. Now, toss those sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re nicely coated.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8 minutes.
5. Give the basket a good shake, then add the sliced garlic. Continue to air fry for another 5 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and beautifully browned.
6. Transfer the sprouts to a serving bowl. Drizzle with that gorgeous pomegranate glaze (just the pomegranate arils!), and you’re ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Shaking the basket halfway through is key to getting those sprouts perfectly browned on all sides.
• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

• Spice Level Adjustment: My friend Priya loves to add a teaspoon of garam masala to the oil for a warm, aromatic kick.
• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your balsamic glaze if you’re being super strict.
• Festival/Holiday Serving Suggestions: During Diwali, I sometimes add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes along with the pomegranate for a festive touch. It’s a beautiful presentation!

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are fantastic as a side dish with almost anything! They pair perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Roasted lamb or pork
• A hearty lentil curry
• Even just on their own as a healthy snack!

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some of the crispiness.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Can I roast these Brussels sprouts in the oven instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air frying, but still delicious.

How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy?

You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color and they should be tender when pierced with a fork. Don’t be afraid to add a minute or two to the cooking time if needed.

Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can trim and halve the sprouts up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before tossing with the oil and seasonings.

What other glazes or toppings can I use?

The possibilities are endless! Try a drizzle of honey-mustard, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Are Brussels sprouts good for you? What are the health benefits?

Definitely! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re great for your immune system, digestion, and overall health.