Brussels sprouts
|bruss-ell spr-ow-t|
Try the Good Food app - subscribe todayThis seasonal vegetable is related to cabbage, with a sweet, nutty, sometimes bitter flavour. Discover how to select, store, prepare and cook Brussels sprouts.
Advertisement
What are Brussels sprouts?
The quintessential Christmas dinner veg, Brussels sprouts are thought to have been cultivated in Belgium in the 16th century, hence the name. Although they're related to cabbage (they even look like a miniature, compact version) they have a sweet, nutty flavour that some people find bitter. They grow in multiple rows along a thick central stalk.
How to prepare Brussels sprouts
If the sprouts are still on the stalk, twist each one off, trim away any loose, yellow or damaged leaves and wash, then trim the base. Some people cut a cross in the base to make sure they cook evenly, but with smaller ones it's not necessary, as it can cause them to go mushy. Larger ones can be cut in half.
To boil, put into a pan with some salt, cover with boiling water, bring back to the boil and cook, covered, for 5-10 mins. They take 5-10 mins to steam. A sharp knife should easily go through the base then they are done, but with a little resistance. They should still feel firm to the touch.
To stir-fry, halve or slice finely and cook for about 10 mins. Sprouts cook very quickly, and if overcooked are quite unpleasant as they lose their sweetness, so test them regularly by piercing with a knife.
You can also eat sprouts raw – trim and finely slice them on a mandoline or with a sharp knife and fold through a creamy dressing or mayonnaise to make a winter slaw or salad.
How to cook Brussels sprouts
Stir-fry in oil with onions and ginger; add to cooked chestnuts at Christmas; or boil until al dente (firm to the bite) and quickly pan-fry with diced pancetta and chopped garlic.
Brussels sprouts recipes
Brussels sprouts with hazelnut & orange butter
Smashed sprouts mash with chestnuts
Brussels sprouts with bacon & chestnuts
Charred Brussels sprouts with Marmite butter
Chilli charred Brussels sprouts
Use up Christmas leftovers with our video on how to make turkey bubble & squeak cakes:
See our Christmas sprouts and Brussels sprouts collections for more recipes.
How to store Brussels sprouts
In a dark, cool place or the fridge for up to four days.
When are Brussels sprouts in season?
Brussels sprouts are at their best over the winter months, coming into season in October and lasting through until March.
Choose the best Brussels sprouts
Look for plump, bright-green heads (the smaller, the sweeter) with tightly packed leaves. If you can buy them still attached to their long central stalk, so much the better – they'll keep fresh for longer that way. The sprout tops at the tip of the stalk can also be prepared in a similar way to spring greens.
Alternatives to Brussels sprouts
Try cabbage as an alternative to Brussels sprouts.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
