If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch of flavor while staying delightfully simple, the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This vibrant stir-fry brings together the earthy charm of caramelized Brussels sprouts, the satisfying heartiness of savory sausage, and the irresistible warmth of five-spice powder. Each bite bursts with layers of aroma and taste, making it a go-to recipe whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser that feels special without the fuss. Ready to dive into a colorful, flavor-packed adventure? Let’s get started on this sumptuous stir-fry that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that combine to create a really exciting dish. From crisp vegetables to fragrant spices and savory sausage, each element plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and color.

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: These little green gems provide a slightly bitter crunch that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
1 lb sausage, sliced (Italian, chicken, or pork): Choose your favorite sausage to bring meaty richness and a savory backbone.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking and creating a golden sear.
1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
1 onion, sliced: Provides subtle sweetness and a tender texture when cooked.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant, pungent kick that elevates every bite.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Brings warmth and a gentle zing to balance the richness.
1 tablespoon five-spice powder: The star seasoning, combining cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, and pepper for a fragrant, complex aroma.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness for harmony.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Introduces a mild tang to brighten and balance the flavors.
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Sweet and savory, it adds a luscious glaze and complexity.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: A finishing drizzle that brings nutty aroma and richness.
2 green onions, chopped: Fresh and crisp, perfect for topping and adding color contrast.
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional): Adds a delicate crunch and aesthetic finish.

How to Make Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts to ensure they cook evenly and develop a perfect crisp-tender texture. Slice your sausage, bell pepper, and onion so everything is ready for a quick stir-fry. Don’t forget to mince the garlic and fresh ginger – these aromatics will infuse the dish with bright, lively notes.

Step 2: Cook Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your sliced sausage and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the sausage first adds a depth of flavor that’s irresistible. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside to keep it warm.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the Brussels sprouts and cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so they start to caramelize and get that appealing golden color. Next, add the red bell pepper and onion, cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still maintain a slight crispness. This balance keeps the dish lively and fresh.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Spices

Now it’s time to awaken the dish with aroma. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. Then sprinkle in the five-spice powder, stirring well and letting it toast just slightly for another minute. The warm, complex flavors of five-spice powder will captivate your senses.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked sausage to the pan and pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Stir everything together so the sauce evenly coats the sausage and vegetables. Let it cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and the sauce to thicken gently, creating a glossy finish that ties the dish beautifully.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss well to combine. The nutty richness of sesame oil brings the whole dish together. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like, adding a fresh crunch and visual appeal.

How to Serve Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe

Garnishes

To make this stir-fry even more inviting, fresh green onions and sesame seeds are perfect finishing touches. They add color, texture, and a little extra flavor sparkle that makes the dish pop when served.

Side Dishes

This flavorful Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or freshly cooked noodles. The starch acts as a perfect backdrop, soaking up the flavorful sauce and rounding out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this stir-fry in warm lettuce cups or over a bed of fluffy quinoa. You can also top it with a fried egg for an added breakfast-for-dinner vibe. These little changes elevate the dish and let you enjoy it in new and exciting ways every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this stir-fry, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat the stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. A splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce and keep the Brussels sprouts from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Italian, chicken, pork, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives work well. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

Is five-spice powder spicy or sweet?

Five-spice powder is more aromatic and warming than spicy hot. It features sweet and slightly pungent notes from cinnamon and cloves, balanced by the anise-like flavor that adds complexity without heat.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to ensure the dish is free from gluten. Rice vinegar and other fresh ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe easily adaptable.

What can I substitute if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

If hoisin sauce isn’t available, a mix of soy sauce, a little honey or brown sugar, and a touch of garlic powder can approximate its sweet-savory depth nicely.

How crispy should the Brussels sprouts be?

They should be tender yet still offer a slight crisp bite, especially at the edges where they caramelize. This contrast makes the texture interesting and keeps the dish fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about the Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe; it’s a dish that feels both comforting and exciting all at once. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels special, and the aromatic five-spice powder truly elevates the flavors. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends, this stir-fry delivers big taste with little effort. Give it a try – I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes before you know it!

Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe

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4.4 from 35 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A flavorful and quick Five-Spice Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Stir-Fry combining tender-crisp vegetables with savory sausage, enhanced by aromatic five-spice powder and a tangy Asian-inspired sauce, perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped

Meat

1 lb sausage, sliced (Italian, chicken, or pork)

Sauces and Oils

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Spices and Garnishes

1 tablespoon five-spice powder
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Slice the sausage, red bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic and fresh ginger. Chop the green onions for garnish.
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 to 7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
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 and soften. Then add the sliced red bell pepper and onion; cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add Aromatics and Spices: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the five-spice powder and cook for another minute, evenly coating the vegetables and enhancing the flavor.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss everything together to incorporate the nutty aroma. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot, ideally over steamed rice or noodles to make a complete meal.

Notes

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce.
For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu.
You can add a splash of chili garlic sauce for some heat if desired.
Ensure not to overcook Brussels sprouts to keep their natural crunch.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion