P.F. Chang’s Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts Price: $11.95
Calories: 370 Cal
The Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts side dish at P.F. Chang’s takes the classic Sichuan-inspired Kung Pao flavor and reimagines it with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. Tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce, garnished with peanuts, and infused with chili peppers, this dish adds bold flavor and a modern twist to traditional Asian cuisine.
- Best For: Adventurous eaters who love bold, sweet-spicy flavors and crispy vegetables.
- Think Twice If: You have a peanut allergy, dislike spice, or are looking for a light, healthy side.
- Our Rating: 4.5 / 5 – A standout, flavorful side for those who can handle the heat.
Credits: @toddwilbur
Taste & Texture: A Flavor Bomb Experience
This dish is anything but boring. It takes the often-misunderstood Brussels sprout and turns it into a crave-worthy star.
- The Sprouts: They are roasted, not steamed, which brings out their natural nutty sweetness and provides a wonderful crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture. This is crucial, as it stands up to the heavy sauce.
- The Sauce: The “Kung Pao” name is accurate. The sauce is a complex balance of spicy, sweet, and savory. You’ll get an immediate hit of sweetness, followed quickly by a building, tingling heat from the chili peppers, all grounded by the umami of soy and garlic.
- The Crunch Factor: The crunchy peanuts are not just a garnish; they are essential. They provide a contrasting texture and their own nutty flavor that complements the roasted sprouts perfectly. The green onions add a final touch of fresh, sharp relief.
Overall: It’s a textural and flavorful home run, but the spice is very present.
Flavor and Ingredients
P.F. Chang’s Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are made with:
- Freshly roasted Brussels sprouts
- Spicy Kung Pao sauce (soy-based with chili peppers and garlic)
- Crunchy peanuts for added texture
- Garnished with green onions for freshness
This side dish is perfect for guests who enjoy bold, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Nutrition Facts – Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
With 370 calories per serving, this is a substantial side. Let’s see where those numbers come from.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 Cal |
| Total Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugars | 15 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
(Values may vary depending on preparation.)
Price & Value: Justifying the $11.95 Cost
At nearly $12, this is one of the more expensive sides on the menu. The value depends on your perspective:
- The Case For Value: You are paying for a creative, well-executed dish that uses a generous amount of fresh vegetables and premium ingredients like peanuts. The preparation (roasting) is more labor-intensive than a simple salad. The flavor complexity justifies the cost for a special meal.
- The Case Against Value: $12 is a lot for a side dish, and the calorie count is high. You could argue you’re paying a premium for a trendy vegetable preparation.
At $11.95, Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts are one of the premium side dishes at P.F. Chang’s. While slightly more expensive than lighter options like the Small Cold Cucumber Salad ($6.95 | 90 Cal), they offer a rich and flavorful experience, making them worth the price for fans of spicy Asian flavors.
Allergen Information
Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts may contain:
- Soy (from the sauce)
- Peanuts
- Gluten (depending on sauce preparation)
It is vegetarian-friendly but not suitable for nut allergies.
Comparison with Other P.F. Chang’s Sides
- Small Cold Cucumber Salad: $6.95 | 90 Cal | Light and refreshing.
- Chili Garlic Green Beans: $11.95 | 250 Cal | Bold garlic flavor.
- Korean-Style Cauliflower: $11.95 | 430 Cal | Crispy and tangy with sweet-spicy sauce.
- Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts: $11.95 | 370 Cal | Spicy, sweet, crunchy with peanuts.
FAQs – Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts at P.F. Chang’s
How spicy Kung Pao Brussels Sprout really?
They have a medium spice level that builds as you eat. It’s not mouth-numbing, but it’s definitely noticeable. If you are sensitive to spice, this is not the side for you.
Can I get them without peanuts?
You can request this, but it will fundamentally change the dish, removing a key textural and flavor element.
Are they the best side dish at P.F. Chang’s?
They are the most innovative and bold. For pure, classic flavor, the Chili Garlic Green Beans are a top contender. For a lighter meal, the Cold Cucumber Salad can’t be beat.
What do Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts taste like?
They have a bold balance of spicy, sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
Final Thoughts
The Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts ($11.95 | 370 Cal) are one of the boldest and most flavorful sides at P.F. Chang’s. Combining the nutty crunch of peanuts with roasted Brussels sprouts and the signature Kung Pao sauce, this dish delivers a satisfying mix of heat and texture.
For guests who love spicy Asian flavors, this side is an excellent complement to entrées like Chang’s Spicy Chicken or Kung Pao Shrimp.
