Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry

Introduction

When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both flavorful and satisfying. This Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry has quickly become a favorite in our household. My family loves how the aromatic five-spice powder elevates the dish, giving it a unique flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the vibrant colors of the Brussels sprouts, red bell pepper, and green onions make it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Whether served over rice or noodles, this stir-fry is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate some greens into our meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 lb sausage, sliced (choose your favorite type, such as Italian, chicken, or pork)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Slice the sausage, bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic and ginger.

1. Cook Sausage:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

1. Cook Vegetables:

• In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
• Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
• Add the red bell pepper and onion. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

1. Add Aromatics and Spices:

• Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the five-spice powder and cook for another 1 minute.

1. Combine and Finish:

• Return the cooked sausage to the pan.
• Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Stir well to coat the vegetables and sausage evenly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

1. Add Finishing Touches:

• Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss to combine.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

1. Serve:

• Serve hot over rice or noodles if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 350 kcal (approximate)
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
• Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice: If you prefer a milder or spicier dish, adjust the amount of five-spice powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
2. Substitutions: Feel free to use other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy based on your preferences.
3. Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep; simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Sausage Choices: Experiment with different types of sausage for varied flavors, such as chorizo or turkey sausage.
5. Make It Vegetarian: Substitute sausage with tempeh or a plant-based sausage alternative to create a vegetarian version.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate cashews or peanuts for an added crunch.
• Add Heat: Include sliced chili peppers for a spicy kick.
• Change the Sauce: Swap the hoisin sauce for teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of jasmine or basmati rice to complement the dish.
• Pair with a light Asian-style salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer dumplings or spring rolls as a starter for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This stir-fry can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

• Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will provide a better texture.

1. What can I substitute for five-spice powder?

• You can use a combination of cinnamon, star anise, ginger, cloves, and fennel for a homemade blend.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

1. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

1. Can I use a different type of oil?

• Yes, you can use sesame oil or canola oil as alternatives.

1. How long does this dish take to prepare?

• The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes.

1. Can I add other proteins?

• Yes, chicken or tofu can be added instead of sausage.

1. What should I do if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

• You can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of honey or brown sugar.

1. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.

1. What’s a good side dish for this stir-fry?
   • Steamed rice or a light salad complements it well.

Conclusion

This Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful family meal. The combination of Brussels sprouts and sausage, enhanced by the fragrant five-spice powder, creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your home as it has in mine!

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