Updated on November 20th, 2023
You might have mixed feelings about Brussels sprouts. It is a vegetable that most kids tend to shy away from. However, with the right recipes, it could become one of your favorite vegetables.
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cabbage family and are packed with vitamins. They have a rich, nutty, sweet, and smoky flavor. Prepared right, they fall into that “can’t each just one” category. Seriously!
The trick to preparing the perfect Brussels sprouts is in the texture. You are striving for crunchy on the outside and nicely tender on the inside.
Brussels sprout nutrition facts
Benefits of adding Brussels sprouts to your meal
- They’re healthy. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamin K, C, and A. They also have a high concentration of antioxidants and fiber. Due to the presence of vitamin K, Brussels sprouts are good for the bones and blood clotting, and the high fiber content is healthy for the gut. Brussels sprouts may also help in managing diabetes and maintaining vision.
- They’re good for your skin. Because Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, they can improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and protect the cells on the skin.
Tips for preparing Brussels sprouts
- Size. Make sure your sprouts are mostly the same size. If you have a few big ones in the mix, half them as needed. This will ensure more even cooking and a more consistent result.
- Cooking method. Although there are different ways to prepare Brussels sprouts, using the wrong cooking method might leave you with a soggy dish. Roasting or sauteing are two reliable ways to prepare Brussels sprouts. If you have the right equipment, air fryer Brussels sprouts are also easy and delicious. For extra pizazz, try our Air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon.
- Cook time. Regardless of your cooking method, overcooking Brussels sprouts is a bad idea. Check them often while cooking.
2 ways to make Brussels sprouts
PrintSauteed Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Black pepper
- Balsamic vinegar or a lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and trim the Brussels sprout by cutting off the hard stem, removing the dead or yellow leaves, and cutting them in halves.
- Heat the oil in a big skillet and add the Brussels sprout.
- Cook until it caramelizes. Add your spices as desired and stir until the Brussels sprouts are dark golden brown.
- Place in a bowl after removing from the skillet and add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, and your Brussels sprouts are ready.
- Serve hot and enjoy alone or with cheese, nuts, or other toppings of your choice.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Balsamic vinegar or a lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and trim the Brussels sprout by cutting off the hard stem, removing the dead or yellow leaves, and cutting them in halves.
- Brush the pan with olive oil
- Spread them evenly on the pan to create enough room to release steam and crisp up, then drizzle olive oil on the Brussels sprout (You can brush them lightly with the olive oil).
- Heat the Brussels sprout at a high temperature for about 15-25 minutes until they are deeply golden brown, crispy on the outside, and can be pierced through with a fork.
- Pour into a bowl and season with red pepper flakes and balsamic vinegar or lemon juice as desires.
- You can also add grated parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy.