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Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe

If you love Brussels sprouts but are always looking for new, exciting ways to enjoy them, you’re going to adore this Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe. This isn’t your everyday side dish — it’s pan-fried to perfection with a sticky, umami-packed miso glaze that makes these sprouts irresistible. Trust me, once you try this, your family and friends will be asking for this at every dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Flavor: The miso glaze turns humble Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering dish bursting with umami.
  • Quick and Easy to Make: Takes just about 25 minutes from prep to plate, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Crispy with a Sticky Finish: You’ll get that great contrast of tender sprouts with a caramelized glaze that clings just right.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with so many meals, from grilled meats to simple rice bowls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a way that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts — that nutty flavor, enhanced by the salty, sweet, and tangy miso glaze. I usually use rapeseed oil for a neutral taste, but olive oil works well, too.

  • Brussels sprouts: Choose fresh, firm sprouts with a vibrant green color for the best texture and flavor.
  • Rapeseed/olive oil: Either works; rapeseed produces a higher smoke point, great for frying.
  • Miso paste: I like white miso for its mild sweetness but feel free to experiment with red or yellow for deeper flavor.
  • Rice vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that balances the glaze; apple cider or white wine vinegar can be good substitutes.
  • Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze all over the sprouts.
  • Toasted sesame oil (optional): Just a teaspoon packs a punch of nutty aroma that elevates the whole dish.
  • Lime juice (optional): A squeeze before serving adds a fresh zing that brightens everything up.
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional): My go-to garnish for a little crunch and additional nuttiness.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. You can change up the flavors or add some extras, making it your own signature dish.

  • Spicy kick: I sometimes add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the glaze when I want some heat — it’s amazing how it wakes everything up.
  • Garlic boost: Throw in some finely minced garlic with the sprouts for an extra layer of flavor that’s always a hit.
  • Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally plant-based, but just be sure your miso paste doesn’t have any hidden animal products.
  • Add nuts or seeds: Toasted almonds or chopped peanuts add fantastic texture if you want some crunch in every bite.

How to Make Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming off the hard, woody ends of the Brussels sprouts and peeling away any yellow or damaged leaves — no one wants bitter or soggy spots messing up the dish. After rinsing them well, dry them completely because moisture will steam the sprouts instead of letting them get crispy. Depending on their size, halve or quarter them so that the pieces are roughly the same size — this ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Brussels Sprouts

Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of your chosen oil. When it’s hot, add the prepared Brussels sprouts in a single layer without stirring — this is key because you want a nice, golden-brown crust to develop on one side. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. You can peek to see if that gorgeous crispiness has formed before you gently stir.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Sprouts

After that initial sear, stir the sprouts to turn them so they brown on more sides. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy — I like them with a little bite still. If they start to stick, you can add a splash of water to help them steam gently, but don’t add too much or you’ll lose that crisp character.

Step 4: Make the Miso Glaze

While the sprouts are cooking, whisk together miso paste, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil (if using) in a small bowl. This mixture is what makes the recipe so special — it’s a balance of salty, sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors that stick to every sprout.

Step 5: Coat and Caramelize

Once your sprouts are cooked to your liking, pour the miso glaze over them in the pan. Toss everything together to coat evenly, then continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the glaze starts to thicken and caramelize, creating that sticky, flavorful coating that’ll have you hooked.

Step 6: Serve with a Fresh Finish

Serve immediately with an optional drizzle of lime juice to add brightness, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra nutty crunch. This final touch really takes the dish from tasty to unforgettable.

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Pro Tips for Making Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe

  • Dry Your Sprouts Thoroughly: Water is the enemy of crispiness, so pat them completely dry after washing.
  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook sprouts in a single layer to ensure they brown nicely instead of steaming.
  • Taste the Glaze: Adjust miso or maple syrup quantities to suit your preference for saltiness and sweetness.
  • Add Glaze at the Right Time: Adding it too early can burn the sugars; add once sprouts are mostly cooked to preserve flavor and texture.

How to Serve Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a meal with three main parts: in the center, a thick, square piece of cooked meat with a dark, crispy crust is decorated with whole black cloves arranged evenly on top, with visible grill marks creating a crosshatch pattern. To the left side of the meat, there is a pile of browned, roasted Brussels sprouts showing both charred and tender textures, with green insides and darker edges. On the right side of the plate, there is a large serving of bright orange mashed sweet potatoes, smooth with a few small bits visible, adding texture. Around the edges, there are several fresh orange slices showing their juicy inner segments clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch and a bright squeeze of lime juice to cut through the richness. If I’m feeling fancy, I add a few thinly sliced green onions or even some fresh cilantro for extra color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice, grilled chicken, or pan-seared salmon. I’ve even tossed it into warm grain bowls with some avocado and a fried egg for a quick lunch that feels anything but ordinary.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I like serving these sprouts in small ceramic bowls, garnished with extra seeds and fresh herbs. It looks stunning on a buffet or family-style spread, especially alongside colorful dishes like pickled veggies or a sesame noodle salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Asian Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The trick is to let them cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess, which helps preserve that lovely caramelized glaze.

Freezing

Honestly, I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the texture of Brussels sprouts and that sticky glaze can get a bit mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the sprouts back into a hot pan with a splash of oil and stir-fry for a few minutes to revive the crisp edges and bring back the caramelized goodness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy texture alive!

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe?

    You can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch, but fresh ones yield the best texture and flavor. If you use frozen, be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly, and expect them to be softer and less crispy than fresh sprouts.

  2. What type of miso paste is best for this recipe?

    I usually recommend white miso (shiro miso) because it has a milder, sweeter flavor that’s perfect for glazing. However, you can experiment with yellow or red miso for a stronger, earthier taste — just adjust the maple syrup accordingly.

  3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

    It can be! Most miso pastes are naturally gluten-free, but check the label to be sure. Use gluten-free tamari if substituting soy sauce or vinegar, and your dish will be safe for a gluten-free diet.

  4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

    Absolutely! This Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe is naturally vegan as long as your miso paste is free from any animal products. It’s a perfect plant-based side that’s full of flavor.

  5. How can I prevent the glaze from burning?

    The key is to add the miso glaze only after the Brussels sprouts are mostly cooked. Keep the heat at medium to medium-low and stir constantly while the glaze thickens to prevent burning, allowing it to caramelize nicely without becoming bitter.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe takes a simple vegetable and turns it into something truly special. When I first tried it, I was amazed at the balance of flavors from the miso glaze — salty, sweet, tangy, and just a bit nutty. It’s become a go-to side dish in my kitchen, especially when I want something quick, healthy, and delicious. I really hope you give it a try and that it becomes a favorite in your home, too. Once you taste those crispy, sticky sprouts, you’ll understand what I mean!

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Asian Brussels Sprouts with Miso Recipe

4.8 from 133 reviews
  • Author: Megane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delight in these Asian Brussels Sprouts pan-fried to crispy perfection and coated with a sticky, umami-rich miso glaze. This quick and flavorful side dish melds the earthiness of Brussels sprouts with the savory depth of miso, balanced by a touch of sweetness from maple syrup and a hint of tang from rice vinegar. Optional lime juice and toasted sesame seeds add fresh brightness and crunch, making it a perfect accompaniment for any meal.


Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts

  • 400 g Brussels sprouts

Glaze

  • 2 tbsp rapeseed or olive oil
  • 1 tbsp miso paste
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (apple cider or white wine vinegar can be substituted)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)

To Serve (Optional)

  • Lime juice
  • Toasted sesame seeds


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the woody ends of each sprout and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Wash thoroughly and dry the sprouts well to ensure they crisp up when cooking.
  2. Cut Evenly: Depending on their size, halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts so that all pieces are similar in size. This helps them cook evenly.
  3. Heat the Pan: Warm a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of rapeseed or olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering.
  4. Pan Fry the Sprouts: Add the prepared Brussels sprouts in a single layer, avoiding stirring for about 5 minutes. This allows one side to get crispy and develop a lovely golden color.
  5. Cook Through: Stir the sprouts and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until they reach your preferred tenderness.
  6. Prepare the Glaze: While the sprouts cook, whisk together the miso paste, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and optional toasted sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
  7. Coat with Glaze: When the sprouts are tender, pour the miso glaze over them and stir well to ensure every sprout is evenly coated.
  8. Caramelize the Glaze: Continue cooking the sprouts with the glaze for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and become sticky.
  9. Serve: Immediately serve the Brussels sprouts, optionally drizzling with lime juice and sprinkling with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • These Brussels sprouts achieve a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness through pan frying.
  • The miso glaze imparts a rich umami flavor with a subtle sweetness and tang.
  • Use lime juice and toasted sesame seeds as garnish for brightness and crunch, but they are optional.
  • Feel free to substitute rice vinegar with apple cider or white wine vinegar.
  • Ensure sprouts are dry before frying to maximize crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 136 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 184 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.03 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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