Jamie Oliver’s "5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts" is a super simple, tasty way to cook Brussels sprouts. The recipe cuts out all the fuss, focusing on just five key ingredients that bring out the sprouts’ natural flavor while keeping things fresh and light. If you’ve ever been put off by Brussels sprouts because they’re too bitter or mushy, this recipe is a game-changer. The genius of it lies in the simplicity: you don’t need a million spices or heavy creams. Just five ingredients and a few minutes and you’ve got a side dish that’s packed with flavor but still healthy.
What I love about Jamie’s approach is that he keeps it real. He doesn’t overcomplicate things but still manages to elevate a humble vegetable into something that feels a bit special. If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing veggie dish with a twist, this recipe’s a solid pick.
Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the magic number. only five ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brussels Sprouts – Fresh ones, of course! You can’t skimp on quality here. Clean them up by trimming the ends and removing any outer leaves.
- Olive Oil – The base for cooking, adds richness without overwhelming the flavor of the sprouts.
- Garlic – A couple of cloves, finely chopped or crushed. This adds a nice savory kick to the dish.
- Lemon – The zest and juice. This is key to balancing the Brussels sprouts’ natural bitterness with a bit of brightness.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated, for that umami finish that ties everything together.
That’s it. Five ingredients that complement each other without stepping on anyone’s toes. Simple but perfect.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need anything fancy, just the essentials:
- Sharp Knife – To trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
- Cutting Board – To make it safe and easy to prep.
- Large Pan or Skillet – Ideally a non-stick one, since you’ll be sautéing the sprouts to get them golden and crispy.
- Microplane or Grater – For zesting the lemon and grating the Parmesan.
- Tongs or a Spoon. To toss the sprouts in the pan, ensuring they’re evenly cooked.
That’s all! No heavy-duty kitchen gadgets required.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts
Making this dish is incredibly easy and only takes about 20 minutes, tops.
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends and peel away any outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half to help them cook faster and get that nice crispy texture on the edges.
- Heat the Pan: Put a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a good splash of olive oil. Wait for it to get hot but not smoking.
- Cook the Garlic: Add the chopped garlic to the pan. Stir it around for a minute or so, just to infuse the oil with its flavor. You want it to be fragrant but not burnt.
- Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the pan, cut side down. Let them sit for about 5-7 minutes, undisturbed. This is how you get those beautiful crispy, golden edges. After that, toss them around and cook for another 5 minutes, making sure they’re tender and crispy all over.
- Add Lemon and Parmesan: Zest the lemon over the pan, then squeeze in some of the juice. Toss the sprouts around to coat them. Grate a generous amount of parmesan over the top, letting it melt into the sprouts.
- Serve: Once everything’s nicely cooked and the flavors have melded, serve it up! You can top it with a little more grated Parmesan if you’re feeling extra cheesy.
What I Learnt
This recipe taught me a lot about the beauty of simplicity in cooking. By using just five ingredients, you realize that every element needs to shine. There’s no hiding behind complex seasonings or sauces. each ingredient plays a role in building flavor.
One of the standout moments for me was how the Brussels sprouts go from being something most people avoid to being a highlight of the meal. The crispy edges give them texture, the garlic adds depth and the lemon brightens the whole dish. The Parmesan, of course, just brings it all together, making it irresistible.
Another thing I learned is the power of timing. Giving the sprouts time to sit in the pan to get crispy really elevates them. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference. I also learned that even a vegetable that some people shy away from (Brussels sprouts) can become a total crowd-pleaser with the right technique.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts recipe is simple but there’s so much room to play around with flavors. You can take the base recipe and adjust it based on what you’re craving or what you have in the pantry. Here’s how:
- Herb Twist: Instead of just using olive oil, you can infuse it with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Just heat the olive oil with the herbs in the pan for a minute or two before cooking the Brussels sprouts. This adds an earthy, aromatic depth to the flavor.
- Add a Sweet Element: To balance out the Brussels sprouts’ natural bitterness, you can toss in a bit of honey or maple syrup. A light drizzle of honey right before serving creates a gorgeous sweet-savory combination. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, sauté some thinly sliced shallots or red onions with a pinch of brown sugar to caramelize them-sweet and savory magic.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika in the mix. A dash of smoked paprika will give a smoky edge to the Brussels sprouts. You can also add chili for a bit of heat and a pop of color.
- Cheese Finish: You can never go wrong with cheese. A handful of crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan can add creaminess and a sharp, salty bite that complements the sprouts. For an extra indulgent touch, melt some butter in the pan before adding the sprouts for a richer, fuller flavor.
- Roast Them: If you’re not into frying, you can roast the Brussels sprouts instead. Toss them with the olive oil and seasoning, then pop them in a hot oven (around 425°F/220°C) for 20-25 minutes. This method brings out a delicious caramelized crunch which is perfect for adding texture.
- Bacon: If you’re not strictly vegetarian or vegan, adding crispy bacon bits is a game-changer. The salty richness of the bacon will balance out the bitterness of the sprouts and give them a whole new dimension.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
After a meal, you’ll likely have some Brussels sprouts left over. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Cool Them Down: Let the Brussels sprouts cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can make them soggy and less appetizing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store them in an airtight container. If you’ve made a large batch, separate the sprouts into smaller portions for easier reheating. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before freezing to preserve the flavor and texture.
- Reheat Properly: To bring back the crispy texture, heat them in a hot pan with a splash of oil or butter. You can also pop them in the oven for a few minutes to get that crispy, roasted texture again. Just avoid microwaving them if you want to keep that crispy bite-they’ll end up soggy.
- Salad or Sandwich Remix: You can also use leftover Brussels sprouts in different dishes. Chop them up and toss them in a salad or use them as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. The sprouts’ flavor actually deepens after a day or two in the fridge.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts are versatile and can pair well with so many dishes:
- Roast Chicken or Turkey: Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for roasted meats. The crispy, caramelized edges of the sprouts complement juicy chicken or turkey beautifully. It’s a classic pairing for Thanksgiving or Sunday dinner.
- Grilled Steak: If you’re in the mood for something hearty, serve these sprouts with a grilled steak. The richness of the steak contrasts perfectly with the slight bitterness of the sprouts. Add a dollop of garlic butter on the steak to tie the whole meal together.
- Pasta: Toss the Brussels sprouts into pasta. It works especially well with something like penne or spaghetti, adding texture and flavor. You could even make a creamy sauce with some cream and Parmesan to go along with the sprouts for a comforting meal.
- Vegan Delight: For a vegan option, pair the Brussels sprouts with quinoa, a grain bowl or roasted sweet potatoes. The sprouts will add crunch and depth while the sweet potatoes or quinoa will balance them with softness and heartiness.
- Egg Dishes: Brussels sprouts also pair wonderfully with eggs. Try serving them with a poached or fried egg on top. The runny yolk creates a luscious sauce that coats the sprouts, adding richness to the dish.
- Cheese and Charcuterie: If you want a lighter meal, you can throw together a cheese and charcuterie board with your Brussels sprouts. The salty meats, tangy cheeses and sprouts work together like a savory dream. Maybe even add some olives or pickles to break up the richness.
FAQs
What Are The Five Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
The five ingredients are brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and sea salt.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Brussels Sprouts Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan by skipping any non-vegan additions like butter and sticking with olive oil.
How Long Should I Cook The Brussels Sprouts In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
They should be roasted for about 25-30 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy.