Forget everything you think you know about Brussels sprouts. The days of bland, mushy, boiled vegetables are long gone. This recipe is about transformation—turning these humble little cabbages into an irresistibly addictive side dish with deep caramelization, crispy, blistered edges, and a flavor that will have everyone reaching for more. The secret lies in high-heat cooking and a glaze that is nothing short of magical.
That magic comes from our Scorpion Gourmet Original Hot Sauce. As the sprouts roast, their natural sugars caramelize, creating a wonderful nutty sweetness. This is the perfect canvas for the 'robust kick' and complex flavor of our Original sauce. The heat isn't just a punch; it's a warm, lingering sensation that perfectly complements the savory, crispy sprouts. The glaze, sweetened with a touch of honey, clings to every nook and cranny, creating a sticky, sweet, spicy, and utterly sophisticated experience that will make a Brussels sprouts believer out of anyone.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Brussels Sprouts - Trimmed and halved lengthwise.
- 3 tbsp Avocado Oil or Olive Oil - Divided; avocado oil is great for high heat.
- To taste Kosher Salt and Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Scorpion Gourmet Original Hot Sauce
- 1 tbsp Honey or Pure Maple Syrup
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce or Tamari - For umami depth.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice - Plus extra wedges for serving.
- 2 cloves Garlic - Minced.
- For garnish Toasted Sesame Seeds or Chopped Peanuts
Instructions
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Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a large, heavy-duty baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well. This helps create an initial sear. While the oven heats, thoroughly dry the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with a kitchen towel—this is crucial for crispiness! Toss them in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of oil, salt, and pepper.
Properly drying and evenly coating the sprouts ensures maximum crispiness. -
Roast to Crispy Perfection
Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single, uncrowded layer, cut-side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes, without stirring, until the bottoms are deeply browned and crispy and the sprouts are tender.
The key to perfect caramelization: don't stir and let them roast undisturbed. -
Make the Glaze
While the sprouts roast, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, Scorpion Gourmet Original Hot Sauce, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Our Original Hot Sauce creates the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami depth. -
Glaze and Caramelize
Once the sprouts are crispy, remove the pan from the oven. Pour the glaze evenly over the hot sprouts. Use a spatula to toss them thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated. Return the pan to the oven for just 3-4 more minutes. This allows the glaze to thicken and caramelize onto the sprouts without burning.
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Serve and Garnish
Transfer the glazed sprouts to a serving platter. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for a crunchy finish. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a bright, acidic squeeze.
Pro Tips
- The Single Layer is Sacred: Do not crowd the baking sheet. If the sprouts are piled on top of each other, they will steam instead of roast. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Don't Stir! Letting the sprouts roast undisturbed for the first 20 minutes is the key to achieving those perfectly blistered, crispy edges.
- Taste Your Glaze: Before adding it to the sprouts, taste the glaze and adjust it to your preference. Want it sweeter? Add a bit more honey. More savory? A dash more soy sauce.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Method: For even more blistering, you can cook the sprouts in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop, cut-side down, until deeply browned, then finish in the oven.
Recipe Variations
- Add Bacon: Toss in 4-6 oz of chopped, cooked bacon with the glaze for a smoky, salty twist.
- Make it a Meal: Add a can of drained chickpeas to the pan for the last 10 minutes of roasting to create a vegetarian main dish.
- Ginger Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the glaze for an extra zing.
- Control the Heat: The Original sauce offers a 'satisfying sting.' For a gentler version, use our Scorpion Gourmet Mild Hot Sauce. For an intense experience, use the Extra Hot sauce, but start with 1 tablespoon!
Serving Suggestions
These sprouts are an incredibly versatile side dish. They are perfect alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pork chops. They also make a stunning and unexpected addition to a holiday table (Thanksgiving, we're looking at you!). For a complete meal, serve them over a bed of quinoa or rice, topped with a fried egg.
Conclusion
These Blistered Brussels Sprouts are a masterclass in how a great hot sauce can elevate a simple vegetable into something extraordinary. The Scorpion Gourmet Original Hot Sauce proves that heat can be a component of depth and complexity, not just a simple burn. It’s the ideal balance for this application, creating a dish that is exciting, sophisticated, and utterly craveable. Once you've mastered this glaze, try it on roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or even carrots—the possibilities are as endless as they are delicious.
