The flavorful and spicy pork combined with healthy brussels sprouts makes this a delicious bowl meal. The punchy spices add a kick to the tender ground pork, while the brussels sprouts add a touch of earthy sweetness. This meal is not only flavorful, but also easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
The ingredients used in this recipe are quite common, but you might not have ancho chili powder and smoky paprika in your pantry. Ancho chili powder, made from dried poblano peppers, has a mild heat and adds a sweet smoky flavor to the dishes. Smoky paprika, on the other hand, lends a deep, woodsy flavor and vibrant red color. If you can't find them at your local supermarket, they are easily available online.
Ingredients for Spicy Pork and Brussels Sprouts Bowl
Olive oil spray: Olive oil spray is a convenient way to add a thin layer of oil to your skillet for cooking, without adding too many extra calories.
Ground pork: Ground pork is the primary protein in this dish. It is flavorful and pairs well with the spices and vegetables.
Red wine vinegar: This vinegar adds some tanginess to the dish which balances the spiciness and richness of other ingredients.
Garlic: Garlic is a kitchen staple, providing a robust, aromatic base for many dishes, including this one.
Spices: A mix of smoky paprika, ancho chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, and ground cumin gives the dish its distinct, spicy flavor profile.
Brussels sprouts: These mini cabbages add a delightful crunch and a sweet, nutty flavor to the dish.
Onion: Onion provides a sweet and slightly pungent flavor which forms the base of many dishes, including this one.
Eggs: Eggs add a layer of richness to the dish, and their creaminess complements the spicy pork and brussels sprouts well.
One reader, Kennett Lerma says:
This spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so satisfying. The combination of spices with the tender pork and crispy brussels sprouts is simply divine. It's become a regular in my meal rotation!
Techniques Required
How to cook the ground pork: Cook the ground pork in a large cast iron or heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
How to combine spices: Mix the smoky paprika, ancho chili powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, and ground cumin in a small bowl.
How to cook the brussels sprouts and onions: Cook the brussels sprouts and onions in the skillet over high heat for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the brussels start to brown and are tender-crisp.
How to cook the eggs: Heat a nonstick skillet, spray with oil, and cook the eggs covered until the whites are just set and the yolks are still runny, for about 2 to 3 minutes.
How To Make Spicy Pork Brussels Bowls
Lean ground pork is seasoned with a homemade spice rub to make this spicy pork dish that’s served with a base of Brussels sprouts and an egg on top.
Serves:
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 1lbground pork,(90% lean)
- 2tbspred wine vinegar
- 3clovesgarlic,minced
- 1tspsmoky paprika
- 2tspancho chili powder
- 1tspkosher salt
- ¼tspcayenne pepper
- ¼tspblack pepper,freshly ground
- ¼tspdried oregano
- ¼tspground cumin
- 6cupsbrussels sprouts,shredded
- ¼cuponion,chopped
- 4large eggs
Instructions
-
Heat a large cast iron or heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat, spray with oil and cook the meat, breaking it up in small pieces.
-
Combine spices in a small bowl.
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Add garlic, season with spices and vinegar and cook until browned and no longer pink in the middle, 8 to 10 minutes.
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Set aside on a plate.
-
Add the brussels and onions to the skillet and cook over high heat for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the brussels start to brown and are tender-crisp.
-
Return the pork to the skillet and mix everything together for 1 to 2 minutes.
-
Heat a nonstick skillet and spray with oil, when hot cook the eggs, covered until the whites are just set and the yolks are still runny. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 481.94kcal
- Fat: 34.03g
- Saturated Fat: 11.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.93g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.97g
- Carbohydrates: 15.13g
- Fiber: 6.02g
- Sugar: 3.71g
- Protein: 30.46g
- Cholesterol: 267.65mg
- Sodium: 678.72mg
- Calcium: 115.43mg
- Potassium: 981.85mg
- Iron: 4.33mg
- Vitamin A: 169.14µg
- Vitamin C: 114.59mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Spicy Pork and Brussels Sprouts Bowl
When cooking the brussels sprouts, make sure not to overcook them. They should retain a bit of crunch for a satisfying texture contrast with the soft, spicy pork. Also, when cooking the eggs, remember that the residual heat will continue to cook the eggs even after you've removed them from the heat. Therefore, it's best to take them off the heat just before they reach your desired level of doneness.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Spicy Pork and Brussels Sprouts Bowl
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Opt for one-pan recipes to minimize clean-up and save time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Multitask: While one component is cooking, use that time to prep the next step to maximize efficiency.
Invest in tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to speed up prep work.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to ensure efficient and successful cooking without the need for adjustments.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Pork Brussels Bowls Recipe
olive oil spray - Substitute with avocado oil spray: Avocado oil spray has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil spray.
ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground pork and can be used as a healthier option in this recipe.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a slightly milder flavor compared to red wine vinegar and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a mild, sweet flavor similar to garlic and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
smoky paprika - Substitute with regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke: By combining regular paprika with a small amount of liquid smoke, you can replicate the smoky flavor of smoky paprika.
ancho chili powder - Substitute with regular chili powder: Regular chili powder can be used as a substitute for ancho chili powder, providing a similar level of heat and flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity in the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika and a pinch of chili flakes: By combining paprika with a small amount of chili flakes, you can replicate the heat of cayenne pepper.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a slightly milder flavor in the dish.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to dried oregano and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, providing a similar warm and citrusy flavor to the dish.
brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli florets can be used as a substitute for brussels sprouts, offering a similar texture and flavor when roasted.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onion, providing a milder and slightly sweet flavor in the dish.
large eggs - Substitute with duck eggs: Duck eggs can be used as a substitute for large eggs, providing a richer and creamier texture in the dish.
Elevate Your Presentation
Elevate the plating: When presenting the spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use the vibrant colors of the dish to your advantage, and consider incorporating elements of height and texture to add visual interest.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish to enhance the overall dining experience. Consider adding a crunchy element, such as toasted pumpkin seeds, to contrast with the tender pork and brussels sprouts.
Highlight the freshness of the ingredients: Emphasize the quality and freshness of the ingredients by showcasing them in their natural form. Consider leaving some brussels sprout leaves whole and arranging them strategically to showcase their vibrant green color.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that each component of the dish is well-seasoned and balanced. The spicy pork should complement the earthy flavor of the brussels sprouts, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with a hint of acidity from the red wine vinegar.
Utilize elegant plating techniques: Employ refined plating techniques to create a sophisticated presentation. Consider using tweezers to delicately place individual components and garnishes with precision.
Incorporate a drizzle or sauce: Elevate the dish by adding a drizzle or sauce to enhance the flavors and aesthetics. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light, tangy sauce can add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Consider the vessel: Select a beautiful, high-quality bowl or plate to showcase the dish. The vessel should complement the colors and textures of the spicy pork and brussels sprouts, adding to the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need
- Large cast iron or heavy nonstick skillet: These skillets are ideal for cooking the ground pork and brussels sprouts, as they distribute heat evenly and can withstand high temperatures.
- Small bowl: This is used to combine the spices before adding them to the pork and brussels sprouts.
- Nonstick skillet: This is used to cook the eggs, ensuring they don't stick to the pan.
- Plate: Used to set aside the cooked pork while the brussels sprouts are being prepared.
- Food processor: Not required for this recipe.
- Mixing bowl: Not required for this recipe.
How To Store and Freeze Leftovers
- Let the spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
- If you want to freeze the dish, transfer the cooled pork and brussels sprouts mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label it with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw the frozen pork and brussels sprouts overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the mixture and prevent it from drying out.
- For best results, cook fresh eggs to serve with the reheated pork and brussels sprouts bowl. The runny yolks will add a delicious richness to the dish.
- If you have leftover cooked eggs, you can store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or a skillet with a bit of water to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
How To Reheat Leftovers
To reheat leftover spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the dish is heated evenly throughout.
Transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. The foil will help to retain moisture and prevent the food from drying out during the reheating process.
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and let it reheat for about 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the amount of leftovers you have and how cold they were to begin with.
Alternatively, you can reheat the leftovers in a microwave. Transfer the pork and brussels sprouts to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to create steam and keep the food moist.
Microwave the leftovers on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the food is not heated through after 2 minutes, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature.
If you want to add some extra flavor and crispiness to the reheated dish, you can quickly sauté the leftovers in a hot skillet with a little bit of olive oil or butter. This will help to caramelize the brussels sprouts and give the pork a nice crust.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Once the leftovers are heated through, you can serve them as is or top them with a freshly cooked egg for added protein and richness. Enjoy your delicious and easy reheated meal!
Random Fact about Spicy Pork and Brussels Sprouts Bowl
Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They also contain ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. This makes them a nutritious addition to the spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl recipe.
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl recipe is a budget-friendly option for households. The key ingredients, such as ground pork and brussels sprouts, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of simple spices and pantry staples further enhances its cost-effectiveness. The estimated cost for a household of four people is approximately $15-$20, making it a wallet-friendly meal choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and flavorful outcome.
Is This Spicy Pork and Brussels Sprouts Bowl Healthy?
This spicy pork and brussels sprouts bowl recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense ingredients like brussels sprouts, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also incorporates lean protein from the ground pork and eggs, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. However, there are some areas of concern:
- The use of red wine vinegar and a variety of spices may contribute to a high sodium content, which can be detrimental to cardiovascular health if consumed in excess.
- The recipe does not specify the type of ground pork used, and if it is high in fat, it could increase the overall calorie and saturated fat content of the dish.
- The cooking method involves frying the ingredients in oil, which can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats to the meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for lean ground pork or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat alternative.
- Reduce the amount of salt and high-sodium spices used in the recipe, and instead, focus on using more herbs and spices that are naturally low in sodium, such as garlic, onion, and paprika.
- Instead of frying the ingredients in oil, try roasting the brussels sprouts in the oven with a light coating of olive oil spray, and cook the pork and eggs using a non-stick pan with minimal oil.
- Increase the portion of brussels sprouts and other non-starchy vegetables in the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Serve the bowl with a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add more complex carbohydrates and fiber to the meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Recipe
This spicy pork and Brussels sprouts bowl recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of smoky paprika, ancho chili powder, and other spices adds depth and heat to the dish, while the tender-crisp Brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch. The addition of runny eggs on top adds a rich and creamy element that ties everything together. Overall, this recipe offers a balance of savory, spicy, and hearty elements that make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Spicy Pork Brussels Bowls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Spicy Pork Brussels Bowls Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome meal. The use of high-quality ingredients such as ground pork, brussels sprouts, and a blend of aromatic spices like smoky paprika and ancho chili powder guarantees a delicious and nutritious dish. The incorporation of red wine vinegar adds a tangy kick, enhancing the overall taste. The careful cooking instructions ensure that each component is cooked to perfection, resulting in a mouthwatering and visually appealing dish. Trust in the expertise and creativity behind this recipe for a delightful culinary experience.
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