Brussels Sprout Hash: 5 Delicious & Easy Recipes!
Brussels sprout hash is a versatile and nutritious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, and it can be customized to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re a long-time Brussels sprout enthusiast or looking for a new way to incorporate this cruciferous vegetable into your diet, these five delicious and easy Brussels sprout hash recipes are sure to inspire you.
## Why Brussels Sprout Hash is a Winner
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Brussels sprout hash is such a great option:
* **Nutritious:** Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, and they provide a good dose of antioxidants. Fiber is crucial for digestive health and can help you feel fuller for longer.
* **Versatile:** As mentioned earlier, Brussels sprout hash is incredibly adaptable. You can add different vegetables, proteins, and spices to create a wide variety of flavor combinations.
* **Easy to Make:** Hash is inherently a simple dish. It requires minimal cooking skills and can be prepared relatively quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Hash is an excellent way to use up leftover cooked vegetables, meats, or grains. This helps reduce food waste and saves you money.
* **Delicious:** When cooked properly, Brussels sprouts have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with many other ingredients.
## Key Ingredients & Techniques for Perfect Brussels Sprout Hash
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s cover some essential ingredients and techniques to ensure your Brussels sprout hash turns out perfectly every time:
* **Brussels Sprouts:** Fresh Brussels sprouts are always best. Look for firm, tightly packed sprouts with a vibrant green color. Avoid sprouts that are yellowed or have wilted leaves.
* **Fat:** The type of fat you use can significantly impact the flavor of your hash. Olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, bacon fat, and butter are all excellent choices. Consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for when selecting your fat.
* **Aromatics:** Onions and garlic are essential aromatics that add depth of flavor to any hash. Dice them finely for even cooking.
* **Protein:** Protein adds substance to your hash and makes it a more complete meal. Options include sausage, bacon, ham, chicken, tofu, and beans.
* **Vegetables:** Don’t limit yourself to just Brussels sprouts! Other vegetables that work well in hash include potatoes, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini.
* **Seasoning:** Salt and pepper are a must, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices and herbs. Paprika, cumin, chili powder, thyme, rosemary, and oregano are all great choices.
* **Acid:** A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar adds brightness and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
**Techniques for Perfect Brussels Sprout Hash:**
* **Preparation:** Ensure all your vegetables are uniformly diced for even cooking. This is especially important for potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
* **Cooking the Brussels Sprouts:** The key to delicious Brussels sprouts is to avoid overcooking them. Overcooked Brussels sprouts become mushy and bitter. Aim for tender-crisp.
* **Browning:** Don’t be afraid to let your vegetables brown slightly in the pan. Browning adds flavor and texture.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Overcrowding the pan will steam the vegetables instead of browning them. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste your hash as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed.
## 5 Delicious Brussels Sprout Hash Recipes
Now, let’s get to the recipes! These recipes are guidelines; feel free to adjust them to your liking.
### 1. Classic Brussels Sprout and Bacon Hash
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the savory flavors of bacon with the slightly sweet taste of Brussels sprouts.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
* 4 slices bacon, diced
* 1 small onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 medium potato, diced
* 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.
2. Add the diced onion and potato to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the quartered Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 8-10 minutes. If the vegetables start to stick to the pan, add a splash of chicken broth.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot. You can top it with a fried egg for added protein.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use maple syrup to glaze the bacon before adding it to the hash for a sweet and savory flavor.
* Substitute sweet potato for regular potato for a different flavor profile.
* Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
### 2. Sausage and Apple Brussels Sprout Hash
This recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage with the sweetness of apples and the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded or thinly sliced
* 1 pound sausage (Italian or breakfast), removed from casings
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 apple, diced
* 1/4 cup apple cider (or chicken broth)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving some grease.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts and diced apple to the skillet. Cook until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp and the apple is slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. If the vegetables start to stick, add apple cider (or broth) a tablespoon at a time.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot. A drizzle of maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille, for a spicier flavor.
* Add a handful of dried cranberries for extra sweetness and tartness.
* Top with crumbled goat cheese for a tangy and creamy finish.
* A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors.
### 3. Vegetarian Brussels Sprout and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe is a hearty and nutritious vegetarian option that’s packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
* 1 large sweet potato, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1/2 red onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped cilantro for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potato and red onion and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the quartered Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 8-10 minutes. If the vegetables start to stick, add a splash of water.
4. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve hot, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped cilantro.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
* Use black beans or white beans instead of chickpeas.
* Roast the sweet potato and Brussels sprouts in the oven before adding them to the hash for a deeper flavor.
* Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy element.
### 4. Spicy Chorizo and Brussels Sprout Hash with Fried Eggs
This recipe is perfect for those who love a little kick! The spicy chorizo pairs perfectly with the Brussels sprouts and the runny yolks of the fried eggs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded or thinly sliced
* 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, removed from casings
* 1/2 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 eggs
* Optional: Hot sauce, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crispy. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside, leaving some grease.
2. Add the diced onion and minced jalapeño (if using) to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. While the hash is cooking, fry the eggs in a separate pan to your desired doneness.
8. Serve the hash topped with a fried egg. Garnish with hot sauce, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different types of chorizo, such as Spanish chorizo or Mexican chorizo, for varying levels of spiciness.
* Add a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.
* Squeeze lime juice over the hash before serving for a zesty touch.
* Top with crumbled queso fresco for a salty and creamy finish.
### 5. Asian-Inspired Brussels Sprout Hash with Tofu
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the nutritiousness of Brussels sprouts and tofu.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded or thinly sliced
* 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
* 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Sesame seeds for garnish
* Optional: Sriracha for added heat
**Instructions:**
1. Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut into cubes.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts, sliced red bell pepper, and shredded carrots to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup).
6. Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
8. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9. Stir in the chopped green onions.
10. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and a drizzle of Sriracha, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other Asian vegetables, such as bok choy, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
* Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
* Serve over rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.
## Storing and Reheating Brussels Sprout Hash
Leftover Brussels sprout hash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
**Reheating Instructions:**
* **Skillet:** Reheat the hash in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Reheat the hash in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the Brussels sprouts mushy.
## Conclusion
Brussels sprout hash is a delicious, versatile, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. With these five easy recipes, you can explore different flavor combinations and create your own unique variations. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the goodness of Brussels sprout hash!
Enjoy these recipes and happy cooking!