Mustard-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A Savory Vegan Side for Every Table

Transform Brussels sprouts with a zesty mustard glaze—healthy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor for any meal.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 28, 2025

Transform Brussels sprouts with a zesty mustard glaze—healthy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor for any meal.

Mustard-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A Show-Stealing Side Dish

Brussels sprouts are one of the most underrated vegetables on the holiday table, and when prepared right, they can easily steal the show. This mustard-glazed Brussels sprouts recipe delivers vibrant flavor, a satisfying texture, and a nutritional punch that will elevate any meal, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

With a clever combination of whole-grain mustard, sweet apricot jam, tangy white wine vinegar, and crunchy pepitas, this dish is both vegan and packed with anti-inflammatory power. It’s proof that healthy food can also be exuberantly flavorful—and easy to prepare.

Why Brussels Sprouts Deserve a Place at Your Table

Once maligned for their bitterness and soggy, over-boiled reputation, Brussels sprouts are enjoying a renaissance. Their appeal lies in their complex, nutty flavor and remarkable health benefits:

High in Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full.
Rich in Antioxidants: Contains compounds like kaempferol that combat inflammation and may reduce cancer risk.
Loaded with Nutrients: Excellent source of vitamins C & K, plus folate and potassium.
Low in Calories: Perfect for nutritious, weight-conscious eating.

Pairing Brussels sprouts with a bold mustard glaze not only enhances their flavor but also unlocks their culinary potential, making them irresistible to even the most skeptical eaters.

The Art of Flavor: Mustard Glaze Ingredients

What sets this recipe apart is its punchy, sweet-tangy mustard glaze. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need:

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps caramelize the sprouts.
Small Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved for optimal browning.
Kosher salt & cracked black pepper: For balanced seasoning.
Apricot jam: Lends sweetness and a subtle fruity note that offsets the vinaigrette’s acidity.
White wine vinegar: Brings brightness and tang.
Whole-grain mustard: Boosts the glaze with robust, earthy heat and a rustic texture.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of heat.
Garlic: Sliced thin to permeate the dish with savory depth.
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Their crunch adds textural interest and extra nutrition.

Step-by-Step Directions for Perfect Mustard-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Steam and Sauté: In a large skillet, bring 1/2 cup water and 2 tablespoons olive oil to a simmer. Add the Brussels sprouts, season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, cover, and cook—stirring occasionally—until barely tender, about 5 minutes.
Mix the Glaze: While the sprouts cook, whisk the apricot jam, white wine vinegar, whole-grain mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if desired) in a small bowl until blended.
Browning for Flavor: Remove the lid, increase heat to medium-high, and continue cooking until all the water has evaporated, about 2 minutes. Drizzle in the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Scatter the thinly sliced garlic over the sprouts and cook, tossing, until golden and fragrant—2 to 3 minutes. The sprouts should be beautifully browned and fork tender.
Finish and Glaze: Pour the jam-mustard glaze over the sprouts and toss to coat. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
Add Crunch: Remove from heat, add the pepitas, and toss again before serving.

Quick Recipe Table: Mustard-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil (divided)	4 Tbsp.
Small Brussels sprouts, halved	2 lb.
Kosher salt	to taste
Pepper	to taste
Apricot jam	1/4 cup
White wine vinegar	3 Tbsp.
Whole-grain mustard	1 Tbsp.
Red pepper flakes (optional)	Pinch
Garlic, thinly sliced	4 cloves
Pepitas	1/4 cup

Expert Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Brussels Sprouts

Pick Small, Tight Sprouts: Smaller Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly sweeter than their larger counterparts.
Halve for Even Cooking: Cut the sprouts in half to ensure consistent browning and texture.
Brown Well: Don’t rush the browning step—deep caramelization brings out the best flavors.
Customize the Glaze: Substitute apricot jam with peach or orange marmalade for a flavor twist. Dijon mustard can swap in for whole-grain for a creamier texture.

Health Benefits of Mustard-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s loaded with scientifically backed health benefits:

Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Brussels sprouts contain glucosinolates and antioxidants which can help reduce chronic inflammation.
Cancer Risk Reduction: Studies suggest a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts may lower cancer risk due to their high phytonutrient content.
Immune Support: The high vitamin C content supports immune function and skin health.
Heart Health: Fiber, potassium, and antioxidants collectively support cardiovascular wellness by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
No cholesterol: This vegan side contains no animal products, making it suitable for a range of dietary styles.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Serving Suggestions: Making It a Meal

Holiday Feasts: These sprouts shine next to roast turkey, glazed ham, or plant-based mains.
Weeknight Dinners: Pair with grilled tofu or baked salmon for a quick, healthy plate.
Bowl Meals: Toss with quinoa, arugula, and roasted chickpeas for a hearty vegan lunch.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Cool leftovers and add to salads, grain bowls, or as a topping for pizzas and flatbreads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use another type of mustard?

A: Yes! Whole-grain mustard provides robust flavor and texture, but Dijon or spicy brown mustard can be substituted for a different flavor profile.

Q: What if I don’t have apricot jam?

A: Orange marmalade, peach preserves, or even a touch of honey or maple syrup can work as sweetening alternatives.

Q: Are pepitas necessary?

A: They add crunch and nutrition, but you can try sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, or omit for a nut-free version.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes. Gently reheat in a skillet or oven to preserve the crispy edges. Add pepitas just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, as written, it contains no gluten-containing ingredients. Always verify the mustard and jam labels to be certain.

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Bringing It All Together: Why Mustard-Glazed Sprouts Work

With its vibrant flavor, easy preparation, and powerful health credentials, this vegan mustard-glazed Brussels sprouts recipe is the ultimate modern side dish. Whether you’re looking for something fresh for the holidays, a way to fall in love with sprouts, or just a simple, nutritious upgrade to your weekly routine, this dish delivers. Its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes—plus irresistible browned edges—ensures Brussels sprouts will get the spotlight they deserve.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb