How to Create Crispy Air-Fried Brussels Sprouts Chips
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rep for being the vegetable kids and adults alike push to the side of their plate. But when turned into crispy chips, they transform into a delightful snack that can rival even the most beloved potato chip. The best part? You can easily make them in your kitchen with the help of an air fryer. If you’re looking to whip up a healthy, crispy treat, air-fried Brussels sprouts chips are the way to go. Here’s a simple guide to creating these crispy wonders.
Getting Started
First things first, you’ll need an air fryer. This countertop appliance has gained popularity for making healthier versions of our fried favorites, and it’s perfect for creating crispy Brussels sprouts chips without all the oil typically used in deep frying. If you haven’t used one yet, don’t worry—they’re incredibly user-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Brussels sprouts
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste (optional)
- Other seasonings of choice (garlic powder, paprika, etc.) (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Brussels sprouts: Start by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. This step is crucial as dirt can hide in the outer layers. Once washed, trim off the stem end of each Brussels sprout and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. The next step is where the transformation begins—slice the Brussels sprouts very thinly. You can use a knife, mandoline, or food processor with a slicing attachment. The goal is to have thin, chip-like slices for that ultimate crispiness.
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Season: Transfer the thinly sliced Brussels sprouts to a bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until each piece is lightly coated. Sprinkling salt over the oiled sprouts is a must for that savory flavor, but don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your seasons. A dash of pepper, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of paprika can add an enticing flavor. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
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Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step might vary depending on your air fryer model, so it’s wise to consult your manual. Once preheated, place the seasoned Brussels sprouts slices in the air fryer basket. Try to spread them out into an even layer for uniform cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
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Cook to crispy perfection: Cook the Brussels sprouts for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a good shake or use tongs to toss the slices. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness all around. Keep an eye on them toward the end of cooking to ensure they don’t burn. They’re done when they are mostly crisp and have a golden brown color.
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Cool and serve: Once cooked, transfer the Brussels sprouts chips to a cooling rack. Allowing them to cool for a few minutes not only helps them crisp up even more but also makes them a bit safer to snack on right away. Enjoy them as is or dip them into your favorite sauce for an extra kick.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Brussels Sprouts Chips
- Thickness matters: Too thick, and they’ll be soft; too thin, and they might burn easily. Aim for a consistent thickness when slicing.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give your Brussels sprouts chips enough room in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, which means they won’t get crispy.
- Season boldly: Brussels sprouts have a strong flavor that can handle a good amount of seasoning. Don’t be shy—experiment with different spices and herbs.
Conclusion
Creating crispy Brussels sprouts chips in an air fryer is a simple, healthy way to satisfy that craving for something crunchy. With just a few ingredients and a bit of creativity with seasonings, you can transform this often-overlooked vegetable into a delicious snack. The next time you’re looking for a tasty, healthier alternative to traditional chips, give these air-fried Brussels sprouts chips a try. They just might become your new favorite snack!
