Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

Welcome to a culinary adventure where the bold flavors of Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry come together to create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic weeknight dinner, elevating humble Brussels sprouts to a whole new level of deliciousness. The fragrant mix of Italian sausage, combined with the aromatic five-spice powder, promises a plate that is both comforting and exciting.

I first crafted this flavorful dish to showcase the incredible taste potential of Brussels sprouts, and it has since become a beloved staple in my household. Even the pickiest of eaters cannot resist going back for seconds! The secret ingredient here is the five-spice powder, which infuses the entire stir-fry with a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply treat yourself to a satisfying meal, this Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Quick Benefits

• Maximum Flavor with Minimal Fuss: This recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner.
• Unique Twist on Brussels Sprouts: The five-spice powder transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a fragrant and flavorful dish that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of sausage, adjusting the spice level, or adding extra veggies to suit your preferences.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with nutritious Brussels sprouts and a blend of spices, this dish offers a balance of flavors and textures that make it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: The bold mix of hot Italian sausage and fragrant five-spice powder creates a unique and exciting flavor profile that elevates the humble Brussels sprouts.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a go-to option for a satisfying meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts skeptic or a fan, this dish is designed to win over hearts. Even picky eaters will go for seconds, showcasing its broad appeal.
• Memorable Flavors: The aroma and depth of flavor from the five-spice powder add a layer of complexity that sets this dish apart from typical stir-fries, creating a memorable dining experience.
• Versatile Options: Customize the recipe to suit your preferences by adjusting the level of heat with the sausage and jalapeño, or explore alternative ingredients like mild sausage or plant-based options for a different twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Leftovers can be stored and reheated for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld and develop further. This dish is perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
• Culinary Adventure: Experience a harmonious blend of Chinese and Italian flavors with the fusion of five-spice powder and sausage, showcasing a creative and dynamic approach to family meals.
• Texture and Presentation: Crispy Brussels sprouts paired with the savory sausage create a delightful textural contrast, making it a visually appealing and satisfying dish to serve over steamed rice or on its own.

Ingredients for Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

Main

• 450 g brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 15 ml vegetable oil, plus additional as needed
• 450 g hot Italian sausage, casings removed
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced

Seasoning

• 30 ml soy sauce
• 12 g five-spice powder
• 15 ml sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
• Kosher salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

To make the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry, ensure to cook the brussels sprouts cut-side down in hot oil initially to achieve a golden and caramelized exterior, enhancing their flavor. This technique adds a nice crunch and depth to the dish. The key to flavorful results is letting the brussels sprouts cook undisturbed before tossing and stirring briefly.

For a milder version of this dish, opt for sweet Italian or plant-based sausage. This substitution allows you to cater to different dietary preferences without compromising on taste. Adjust the amount of jalapeño or sausage according to your spice tolerance to tailor the heat level to your liking. Feel free to experiment with the spice levels to suit your palate.

When storing leftovers of the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry, place them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together overnight, enhancing the taste. To retain the best texture, gently reheat the dish in a skillet to crisp it up again or use a microwave for a quicker option. This dish is versatile and can be served on its own, piled onto steamed jasmine rice, or paired with a side like a cucumber salad or kimchi for a contrasting zingy flavor.

How to Make Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over high heat. Add sausage and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer sausage to a plate and save the rendered fat in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add 15 ml of reserved fat to the pan. Cook onions until softened but not floppy, about 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Add garlic and jalapeño, cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the plate with the sausage.

Step 3: Cook Brussels Sprouts

Pour up to 45 ml of reserved fat or vegetable oil into the pan. Add halved brussels sprouts, season with kosher salt, and toss to coat. Arrange brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook without stirring until well browned underneath, approximately 3 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze and Steam

After tossing the brussels sprouts, deglaze the pan with soy sauce and 120 ml of water. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and steam the brussels sprouts until just tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Take the pan off the heat and add back the sausage, onion, garlic, and jalapeño mixture. Stir in vinegar and five-spice powder until well combined, using a large bowl if necessary.

Storage Tips

To store the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry, place any leftovers in a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors in the dish will meld together overnight, enhancing the overall taste. The Brussels sprouts maintain their shape quite well when stored properly. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat the stir-fry in a skillet to crisp things up again, or for a quicker option, reheat in the microwave.

For optimal taste and texture, it is recommended to serve the stir-fry immediately after cooking. If you plan to store leftovers, be aware that the Brussels sprouts may soften slightly when reheated. To add a twist to the dish, consider using mild Italian sausage for less heat or swapping it out with ground chicken or turkey. Additionally, you can customize the stir-fry by incorporating extra vegetables like bell peppers for additional color and flavor variations. If you don’t have five-spice powder on hand, you can use a smaller amount of Chinese chili oil for a different but equally tasty twist to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can swap the hot Italian sausage with sweet Italian sausage or plant-based sausage alternatives. This substitution will reduce the heat level while still maintaining a delicious taste profile for the dish.

If you don’t have five-spice powder on hand, you can create a substitute by blending equal parts of cinnamon, star anise, fennel, cloves, and Szechuan peppercorns. Adjust the proportions to your taste preference, especially if you prefer a milder flavor. This homemade blend can provide a similar aromatic and complex flavor profile to the dish.

Feel free to customize this stir-fry by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers for added color and texture. You can also adjust the spiciness by reducing the amount of jalapeño or opting for a milder sausage. Remember to serve the dish immediately for the best texture, as the sprouts may soften when reheated as leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice and garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nuttiness. The combination of the fragrant five-spice powder and the spicy Italian sausage will create a flavor explosion with every bite, making this dish a comforting and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

To elevate this dish even further, consider serving it in individual lettuce cups for a fun and interactive eating experience. Simply spoon the stir-fry into the lettuce cups, garnish with chopped green onions, and a drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil for an extra kick. This presentation not only adds a refreshing crunch to the dish but also makes it a great option for a light and flavorful appetizer or a party snack that will surely impress your guests.

FAQs for Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can try sweet Italian or plant-based sausage for a milder or vegetarian version without losing flavor.

Can I make this dish without five-spice powder?

Mix equal parts cinnamon, star anise, fennel, cloves, and Szechuan peppercorns as a substitute, or use less if you prefer a milder taste.

Where does the heat in this dish come from?

The heat comes from hot sausage and jalapeño. Adjust the amount of jalapeño or sausage to match your spice preference.

How should I store and reheat leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to crisp things up again, or microwave if short on time. Note that sprouts may soften when reheated.

Conclusion

Incorporating Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage into your weekly dinner rotation is a fabulous way to introduce new flavors and textures to your palate. This dish perfectly balances the warmth of Italian sausage with the aromatic notes of five-spice powder, creating a harmonious medley that will have your taste buds singing. Don’t be afraid to customize this recipe to suit your preferences – whether you opt for a milder sausage or experiment with different vegetables, the possibilities are endless!

Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in making the recipe your own. So feel free to get creative and add your own twist to the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out on your culinary journey, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Embrace the fusion of flavors and enjoy the delightful experience of bringing this vibrant and satisfying meal to your table.

Savory Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage Recipe

Bold and flavorful, this Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts Sausage stir-fry is a weeknight hero that will win over any Brussels sprout skeptic.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time18 Minutes

Total Time33 Minutes

CuisineFusion

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (One wok of stir-fry)

Ingredients

Main

• 450 g brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 15 ml vegetable oil, plus additional as needed
• 450 g hot Italian sausage, casings removed
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced

Seasoning

• 30 ml soy sauce
• 12 g five-spice powder
• 15 ml sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
• Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over high heat. Add sausage and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer sausage to a plate and save the rendered fat in a separate bowl.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add 15 ml of reserved fat to the pan. Cook onions until softened but not floppy, about 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Add garlic and jalapeño, cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the plate with the sausage.
3. Cook Brussels Sprouts: Pour up to 45 ml of reserved fat or vegetable oil into the pan. Add halved brussels sprouts, season with kosher salt, and toss to coat. Arrange brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook without stirring until well browned underneath, approximately 3 minutes.
4. Deglaze and Steam: After tossing the brussels sprouts, deglaze the pan with soy sauce and 120 ml of water. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and steam the brussels sprouts until just tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine and Season: Take the pan off the heat and add back the sausage, onion, garlic, and jalapeño mixture. Stir in vinegar and five-spice powder until well combined, using a large bowl if necessary.