Brussels sprouts (2024)

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Good Food team

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This seasonal vegetable is related to cabbage, with a sweet, nutty, sometimes bitter flavour. Discover how to select, store, prepare and cook Brussels sprouts.

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.

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FAQs

Are Brussels sprouts good for you? ›

Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. They may also come with added health benefits, including decreased inflammation and improved immune system health.

Which is healthier broccoli or brussel sprouts? ›

While broccoli may have a higher count of calories, fat, and carbs, it is richer in calcium, iron, and pantothenic acid (a B vitamin that does wonders for healthy hair), and has a bit more potassium. Brussels sprouts, on the other hand, are lower in sodium.

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What is the healthiest way to eat Brussels sprouts? ›

Roasting Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugar and mellows out bitter notes, providing rich flavor and a crispier texture. Brussels sprouts are a good source of fiber and vitamins C and K, notes the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Are Brussels sprouts baby cabbages? ›

Are Brussels Sprouts Just Baby Cabbages? Sorry to burst a Barbie-sized bubble, but no, these sprouts are not actually baby cabbages. However, they are in the same family, the Brassica, or cruciferous family. Other members include kale, broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens, turnips, mustard, and bok choy.

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Is it better to eat Brussels sprouts raw or cooked? ›

Brussels sprouts are a nutritious vegetable in the cruciferous family. While they're often enjoyed cooked using methods like roasting, steaming, or boiling, you can also enjoy Brussels sprouts raw. The most common side effect of eating raw Brussels sprouts is that they may cause gas in some people.

Do Brussels sprouts make you gassy? ›

Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower are high in sulfur and can cause bloating and gas. Try some of these vegetables to see if they are easier to digest: carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, zucchini, green beans, celery and squash.

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Which country produces the most brussel sprouts? ›

In Continental Europe, the largest producers are the Netherlands, at 82,000 metric tons, and Germany, at 10,000 tons. The United Kingdom has production comparable to that of the Netherlands, but its crop is generally not exported.

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