Learn how to cook Brussels sprouts, a delicious side dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you like them steamed, roasted, or sautéed, these tiny cabbages can make an excellent addition to any meal.
Cooking Brussels sprouts is a fantastic way to introduce a delicious and healthy vegetable into your meal rotation. Not only are Brussels sprouts packed with vitamins, but their unique flavor adds a special something to any dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side, learning how to cook Brussels sprouts can be the key to success in the kitchen.
Brussel Sprouts originated in Brussels, Belgium.
What are Brussels Sprouts?
Brussels sprouts have been a staple item in the vegetable aisle for many years, but recently they have become even more popular due to their health benefits. Not only are these little green cabbages packed with vitamins and minerals, they are also low in calories and high in fiber. As a result, Brussels sprouts can help you maintain a healthy weight while providing essential nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy.
The taste of Brussels sprouts has been described as nutty or earthy, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, salt and pepper, you can quickly whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Types of Brussels Sprouts
There are several types of Brussels sprouts that vary depending on size, color and texture. The most common variety of Brussels sprouts is called Windsor, which is recognizable by its small size and dark green coloring. This type of Brussels sprout holds up well when cooked and has a robust flavor that makes it popular among chefs.
Ruby Crunch is another type available that also has a deep green color but features a slightly sweeter taste than the Windsor variety. Finally, long Island is the largest type of Brussels sprout with an intense flavor profile; these hold up well to roasting or grilling methods when cooking them.
Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrition. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of fiber, which helps promote good digestion and can even help prevent diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
They contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of cancer and other inflammatory conditions. Plus, they can help lower cholesterol levels while providing essential vitamins like vitamin C, K, and A that support a healthy immune system.
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts
STEP 1: PREP THE OVEN
Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit and line the baking sheet with foil. Spray with cooking spray and set aside.
STEP 2: TRIM THE SPROUTS
Carefully trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half. Place in a bowl and toss with a coating of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
STEP 3: ROAST THE SPROUTS
Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast until golden and caramelized, about 40 minutes. Serve hot, room temperature, or chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
For an extra kick of flavor, try adding try adding red pepper flakes or lemon zest before roasting and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Brussels sprouts do best in cool seasons, but they will sprout from a seed when the soil is between 45 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Adding just one or two servings of Brussels sprouts to your diet a few times per week can help you meet your vitamin C intake.
Expert Tips for How to Cook Brussels Sprouts
- ROAST: There are many ways of cooking Brussels sprouts, but roasting is the best way to bring out the delicious nutty flavors.
- SPICES: Basil, chives, dill, flat-leaf parsley, and thyme all pair wonderfully with Brussels sprouts, adding a bold burst of freshness to the meal.
- SOAK: Soak Brussels sprouts in a bowl of cold, salted water for twenty minutes to prepare before cooking.
Recommended Tools & Equipment:
- Baking Sheet
- Foil
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
More Ingredient Tutorials
- How to Make Quinoa in a Rice Cooker
- How to Trim Brussels Sprouts
- How To Make Buttermilk with Regular Milk
Brussels Sprout Recipes to Try
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How to Cook Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- 1 Sheet of Foil
Ingredients
- 1 head Brussels sprout
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit and line the baking sheet with foil. Spray with cooking spray and set aside.
- Carefully trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half. Place in a bowl and toss with a coating of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast until golden and caramelized, about 40 minutes. Serve hot, room temperature, or chilled.
