I picked up Trader Joe's Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts out of curiosity. I'm always open to trying new frozen sides, especially anything with Brussels sprouts. I like them roasted and crispy, so the idea of a Kung Pao version sounded interesting - a little sweet, a little spicy, and something different from my usual routine.
Location in store
You'll find this in the frozen vegetable section, near items like the stir-fried rice and cauliflower fried rice. It comes with Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, and a separate sauce packet that you heat and toss together once everything's cooked.
Taste test
The Brussels sprouts are halved and come out tender after cooking - not too mushy, which I appreciated. The sauce has a nice balance of sweet and savory with a mild amount of spice. It reminds me more of a soy-garlic glaze than a true takeout-style Kung Pao sauce, but the flavor works.
It's definitely on the sweeter side, so I like adding a splash of soy sauce or chili crunch to tone it down a bit. I also prefer roasting the sprouts in the oven first (or air frying them) before tossing with the sauce - that keeps them crisp and adds a little caramelization.
Overall, it's a solid option for an easy side dish. The flavor is pleasant, the spice level is light, and it pairs nicely with rice or other Asian-inspired dishes.
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How I like to serve it
I've had it a few different ways - with plain rice, added into leftover fried rice, lentils and once with noodles. It's good enough to go with most meals. I've also tossed in some Trader Joe's Spanish Rice or leftover Kung Pao Chicken for a quick dinner.
If you like a bit more kick, adding Chili Onion Crunch or red pepper flakes makes it more balanced.
Similar products
If you like this one, try:
- Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken - similar flavor profile with more protein
- Trader Joe's Cauliflower Stir Fry - another good veggie-based freezer meal
- Trader Joe's Teriyaki Chicken - milder, but pairs well with these sprouts
Final thoughts
Trader Joe's Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are a convenient, flavorful side dish that's easy to keep on hand. The sauce is a little sweet for my taste, but the overall dish works, especially when roasted instead of microwaved.
It's not something I'd eat every week, but I'd buy it again when I want a quick, slightly spicy vegetable side to go with rice or chicken.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐☆
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