Fasting can be an incredible spiritual journey that brings us closer to God, and sometimes, the simplest recipes help keep us humble and focused. These hot honey Brussels sprouts recipe adds a burst of flavor to our meals without turning our fast into a feast—just enough sweetness and tanginess to keep things interesting while we nourish our bodies and souls.
🍃 Why You Will Love This Recipe
When we’re fasting, we often worry about missing key nutrients—like proteins—but Brussels sprouts are a wonderful source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. That’s exactly why this easy recipe comes together with simple ingredients to ensure that the whole family (yes, even those picky eaters) can enjoy a flavorful side dish. With minimal effort, these crispy sprouts hit all the right notes: a nice kick of heat, a golden brown exterior, and just enough sweetness to satisfy everyone in the room. Whether you’re cooking for kids or preparing a nutritious dish for yourself, these hot honey Brussels sprouts are proof that fasting meals can be both humble and delicious.
🥦 Ingredients
1 - Key Ingredients
Here is the ingredient list you’ll need for this easy recipe. I’ve kept everything as simple as possible, using only staple items you can find in most grocery stores:
- 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, halved, stems and ragged outer leaves removed (If you have very large fresh brussels sprouts, cut them into quarters. They should all be cut to the same size for even cooking.)
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Tip: If you’re following a traditional Orthodox fast, honey is generally considered acceptable (unlike strict vegan diets where honey might be excluded). However, if you prefer, you can use maple syrup instead of regular honey or mike’s hot honey for an extra pinch of spice. This choice keeps it well within Orthodox fasting guidelines because we’re simply avoiding animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs.
Optional Flavor-Boosters
- A small pinch of garlic powder for added savory depth.
- A teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want a nice kick of heat.
- A little lemon zest for a bright tangy finish.
- Green onions for a pop of color and fresh bite.
2 - Variations
You can truly make these hot honey Brussels sprouts your own while still staying within the rules of fasting as established by the Orthodox Church. Below are a few delicious side dish variations to consider:
- Spicy Flavors: Swap out the teaspoon of honey for homemade hot honey or mike’s hot honey. This hot honey glaze provides that perfect texture and that nice kick of heat if you’re a spicy food lover. Add extra red pepper flakes to turn this recipe into a crispy hot honey Brussels sprouts extravaganza.
- Simple Maple Twist: If you’d like to try something different from honey—maybe for variety or if you prefer an alternative sweetener—use maple syrup instead. It has a deep amber color and brings a more robust, earthy sweetness without sacrificing that golden brown finish.
- Air Fryer Method: For those days when you want to keep your hot oven free, cooking method changes are always welcome: toss your brussels sprouts in the same ingredient list, place them in an air fryer, and cook at medium-high heat (about 400°F) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’ll still get crispy hot honey Brussels sprouts with minimal effort—no cast-iron skillet required.
- Extra Aromatics: Feeling creative? Add a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. But make sure you don’t pile on too many strong flavors—these favorite vegetables have a wonderful bite on their own.
No matter what you choose, these variations ensure your final dish remains fast-friendly, tasty, and in line with Orthodox fasting traditions. Keep in mind that the best ways to ensure a crisp texture is to roast them in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or use a parchment-lined baking sheet to help minimize sticking.
🍽️ Instructions
1 - Step by Step Instructions
Here’s the full breakdown of how I prepare these Crispy Hot Brussels Sprouts With Honey and Balsamic Vinegar. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the cooking time so you get that perfect, golden-brown finish.
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the middle or bottom rack depending on your oven’s heat distribution. A hot oven is key for achieving crispy sprouts in a timely manner. If you have a convection (fan) setting, you can use that for even better browning.
- Prep the Baking Sheet:
Line a rimmed baking sheet or a parchment-lined baking sheet (heavy-duty aluminum foil works too) to reduce cleanup later. This will help your roasted hot honey Brussels sprouts release easily without sticking, especially if any honey or balsamic vinegar drips.
- Combine the Main Ingredients:
On the prepared baking sheet, toss the fresh Brussels sprouts (halved or quartered if large) with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spatula, spread them out into a single layer so each sprout has room to crisp. The biggest trick to easy Brussels is giving them enough space to roast rather than steam.
- Roast to Golden Brown:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 20 minutes, stirring or flipping the sprouts halfway through. Keep an eye out for those brown leaves—they add amazing texture. If you like your Brussels extra crispy, you can go up to 25-30 minutes, but watch closely so they don’t burn.
- Add the Sweet & Tangy Glaze:
Once they’re out of the oven and have achieved that perfect texture, drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey right over the top. For a spicy version, consider swirling in a dash of hot sauce or using a hot honey mixture to create your own hot honey glaze. Stir until everything’s evenly coated.
- Taste & Adjust:
Give one of those crispy sprouts a quick taste while they’re still warm. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar, if needed. If you crave more spice, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes. This final seasoning step helps you reach that 5-star rating at home!
- Serve Warm:
Plate up your crispy Brussels sprouts and enjoy immediately for best results! You can serve them on their own or pair them with a simple side dish for a full fasting meal.
2 - Cooking Tips & Serving Suggestions
- The Perfect Side Dish: These crispy hot honey Brussels sprouts are a flavorful side dish that pairs brilliantly with roasted vegetables, a hearty grain salad, or if it’s a non-fasting day, with a little roast chicken or fish. But for fasting, simply serve them with other vegetable-based dishes to create a balanced meal.
- Room Temperature: If you’re bringing these to a potluck or a church gathering, they taste wonderful even at room temperature, so you don’t have to worry if you can’t serve them piping hot.
- Minimal Effort: Roasting is one of the best ways to cook Brussels sprouts because it simplifies the cooking method significantly. Just pop them in a hot oven, and let the heat do the work.
- Extra Crunch: If you’re looking for even crispier edges, try using a large cast iron skillet heated in the oven beforehand. Carefully add your sprouts to the hot skillet for that immediate sizzle and perfect texture.
- Optional Extras: For those who love a nice kick of heat, keep that small saucepan on the side to heat up more hot sauce, mike’s hot honey, or add a sprinkling of teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
🧊 Storage Instructions
1 - Making A Batch For Later
1 - Making A Batch For Later
I love having these hot honey Brussels sprouts ready-to-go for busy days, especially in the middle of the fast when meal-planning can get hectic. Here’s how I make a big batch and store them:
- Scaling Up:
Double or triple the ingredient list. You can roast them on two or more prepared baking sheets simultaneously. Make sure each sheet pan is placed on a different oven rack, or stagger the cooking if your oven can’t handle multiple trays at once.
- Freezing:
After cooking and letting them cool down to room temperature, lay the sprouts in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer for 3-5 minutes to firm them up slightly.
Transfer them into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to reduce freezer burn. Here’s a trick: separate the high moisture glaze (balsamic vinegar + honey) from the sprouts if you plan on freezing them for more than a week. In that case, add the glaze only after thawing and reheating the sprouts to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Extending Shelf Life:
If you want to preserve that crispy Brussels sprouts texture, it’s best not to store them with too much moisture. You can store the plain roasted sprouts (with salt, pepper, and avocado oil) and then add the honey and vinegar after you reheat them.
Try to squeeze out as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent oxidation, which can cause off-flavors or freezer burn.
2 - Storing Leftovers
2 - Storing Leftovers
For smaller portions, or if you just want to keep them for a few days in the fridge:
- Fridge Storage:
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep any leftover hot honey glaze or balsamic-honey mix separate if possible, to maintain that perfect balance between crispy and saucy when you reheat.
- Freezer Storage:
If you made a big batch and want to store them longer than a week, freezing is the way to go. Again, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet (lined with foil or parchment paper), freeze them until they’re firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. They should keep well for about 1-2 months before the flavor and texture start to decline.
- Tips to Expand Shelf Life:
- Always label your container with the date.
- Separate high moisture sauces from the crispy sprouts if you want to keep that crunchy exterior intact.
- Reheat gently to avoid overcooking or drying them out.
3 - How to Reheat?
3 - How to Reheat?
Proper reheating ensures you don’t sacrifice flavor or texture:
- Thawing:
If your crispy sprouts are frozen, transfer them to the fridge overnight or simply place the container on your countertop for a few hours until they’re thawed enough to separate without force.
- Reheating in the Oven:
Preheat your oven to about 375°F. Spread the thawed Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little fresh avocado oil if needed, and roast for 5-10 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy on the edges. If you didn’t add the honey-balsamic mix before freezing, you can add it now and return them to the oven for another 3-5 minutes just to warm up that glaze.
- Avoid Overcooking:
Keep an eye on them to prevent burning or drying out. Overcooked Brussels sprouts lose that perfect texture. A quick flash in the oven is enough to restore them to almost-fresh status.
🥗 Side Dishes
When I whip up these crispy hot honey brussel sprouts during a fasting period, I often like to pair them with other hearty sides that are still within the confines of Orthodox fasting. Here are a few suggestions:
- Hearty Lentil Soup
- A simple bowl of lentil soup works wonders because it provides additional protein. Savor the warmth of lentils, carrots, onions, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The sweetness of the roasted sprouts complements the savory soup beautifully.
- Garlicky Roasted Potatoes
- Roast baby potatoes in the oven (maybe on another sheet pan right alongside the sprouts). Season them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a fuss-free side that is great for kids. The starchy goodness pairs well with the tangy sweetness of the balsamic and honey.
- Warm Grain Salad
- Cook up your favorite grains like quinoa, farro, or barley. Toss with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of green onions or fresh parsley. Top it all with your crispy sprouts. The combination of the grain salad’s chewy texture and the sprouts’ brown leaves crispiness is a match made in heaven.
Personal Tip: Don’t hesitate to mix and match these side dishes for a more bountiful meal. Even though we’re fasting, it’s important to keep our bodies well-nourished so that we have energy for prayers, work, and family.
📝 Recipe Card
Crispy Hot Brussels Sprouts With Honey and Balsamic Vinegar
Print Pin RateIngredients
- 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts halved, stems and ragged outer leaves removed (If you have very large fresh brussels sprouts, cut them into quarters. They should all be cut to the same size for even cooking.)
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the middle or bottom rack depending on your oven’s heat distribution. A hot oven is key for achieving crispy sprouts in a timely manner. If you have a convection (fan) setting, you can use that for even better browning.
Prep the Baking Sheet
- Line a rimmed baking sheet or a parchment-lined baking sheet (heavy-duty aluminum foil works too) to reduce cleanup later. This will help your roasted brussels sprouts release easily without sticking, especially if any honey or balsamic vinegar drips.
Combine the Main Ingredients
- On the prepared baking sheet, toss the fresh brussels sprouts (halved or quartered if large) with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spatula, spread them out into a single layer so each sprout has room to crisp. The biggest trick to easy brussels is giving them enough space to roast rather than steam.
Roast to Golden Brown
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 20 minutes, stirring or flipping the sprouts halfway through. Keep an eye out for those brown leaves—they add amazing texture. If you like your Brussels extra crispy, you can go up to 25-30 minutes, but watch closely so they don’t burn.
Add the Sweet & Tangy Glaze
- Once they’re out of the oven and have achieved that perfect texture, drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey right over the top. For a spicy version, consider swirling in a dash of hot sauce or using a hot honey mixture to create your own hot honey glaze. Stir until everything’s evenly coated.
Taste & Adjust
- Give one of those crispy sprouts a quick taste while they’re still warm. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar, if needed. If you crave more spice, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes. This final seasoning step helps you reach that 5-star rating at home!
Serve Warm
- Plate up your crispy brussels sprouts and enjoy immediately for best results! You can serve them on their own or pair them with a simple side dish for a full fasting meal.
Video
Notes
- A small pinch of garlic powder for added savory depth.
- A teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want a nice kick of heat.
- A little lemon zest for a bright tangy finish.
- Green onions for a pop of color and fresh bite.
Nutrition
Closing Thoughts
As we strive to deepen our faith, I’ve learned that fasting is not about denying ourselves the pleasure of all foods but about simplifying our diets to focus more on prayer and spiritual growth. Recipes like these Crispy Hot Brussels Sprouts With Honey and Balsamic Vinegar prove that we can still enjoy some flavorful, golden brown, and perfectly balanced dishes without turning it into a feast. The sweet tang of honey and balsamic vinegar, coupled with the lightly charred edges of Brussels sprouts, provides that satisfying bite we all crave. From the kids to the grandparents, everyone seems to reach for seconds when I bring these to the table.
No matter which variation or side dish you choose, I hope this meal brings you both nourishment and joy during your fasting journey. Remember to keep things simple, embrace each bite mindfully, and let the flavors remind you that God’s abundance is found in every corner of creation—even in these humble little sprouts.
And with that, we’ve managed to turn an easy recipe into a staple for the entire family—one that’s comforting, fast-friendly, and undeniably delicious. Give these hot honey Brussels sprouts a try, and don’t forget to drop your feedback or share your favorite twist on this recipe. May your fasting be fruitful and your meals bring you closer to Him.
Thierry – signing off with a prayerful heart!
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