Today, I’m sharing everything I know about Brussels sprouts.
This guide covers the best pairings, delicious recipes, health benefits, and even how to grow your own.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gardener, there’s something here for you.
Hi, I’m Hasan, and I’ve been gardening for about eight years.
Want to be a successful gardener?
How do you start an organic garden for beginners?
Before starting a new home garden you must know about these 12 steps…
1. Choose the best month
2. Plan about your garden
3. Where to Put Your Garden
4. Rectify your soil
5. Sunlight
6. Essential tools you need
7. Prepare garden bed or grow bags
8. Select some seeds
9. Plant your seeds
10. Water your garden at the right time
11. Mulch your garden
12. Take care of your garden regularly
Table of Contents
Brussels Sprouts Basics
- Choose firm, compact sprouts that are green and heavy for their size.
- Store in an open plastic bag in the fridge for up to 10 days.
- Frozen Brussels sprouts are also a good option.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
- Protects DNA.
- Lowers cardiovascular risk.
- Supports digestion.
- Anti-inflammatory.
- Prevents cancer.
- Rich in vitamins C, K, and A.
- Supports eye health.
- Good for detoxification.
Brussels Sprouts Stages of Growth
1. Germination: Sprout appears after planting the seed.
2. Seedling: Stalks grow leaves.
3. Flowering: Small yellow flowers appear.
4. Fruit Bearing: Resemble bushes as they mature.
5. Budding: Small sprouts appear after pollination.
6. Mature Sprouts: Ready for harvest in 3-4 months.
7. Harvesting: Twist sprouts from the stem to pick.
What Pairs Well with Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts pair well with a variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, dairy, proteins, and other ingredients.
Here are some perfect pairings:
- Fruits & Veggies: Apples, artichoke, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, eggplant, endive, fennel, garlic, ginger, orange, radish, zucchini.
- Herbs, Nuts & Dairy: Basil, bay leaf, blue cheese, caraway seeds, nutmeg, parmesan cheese, parsley, pistachio, thyme.
- Protein & Others: Bacon, beef, capers, duck, ham, salami, soy sauce, sumac.
Smashed Brussels Sprouts
1. Steam Brussels sprouts until tender.
2. Toss with olive oil and seasoning.
3. Line them up on a baking sheet and smash them with the bottom of a cup.
4. Top evenly with grated parmesan cheese.
5. Bake in a 450-degree oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are crispy.
Quick Facts on Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels sprouts are in the same family as cabbages.
- They became popular in the 16th century.
- These veggies originated from Brussels, Belgium.
- Peak season is from late September to February.
Nutrients in Brussels Sprouts
In just half a cup of cooked Brussels sprouts, you get:
- Calories: 28
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbs: 6 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Vitamin K: 137% of the RDI
- Vitamin C: 81% of the RDI
- Vitamin A: 12% of the RDI
- Folate: 12% of the RDI
- Manganese: 9% of the RDI
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts
Sauteed
1. Heat 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook 2 cloves of minced garlic in oil for 1 minute.
3. Add 1 lb of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts and stir for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Roasted
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Combine olive oil, garlic, Brussels sprouts, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-17 minutes.
Steamed
1. Fit a pot with a steamer insert and fill with water.
2. Bring water to a boil and add Brussels sprouts.
3. Steam for 6-8 minutes, then season.
Braised
1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then Brussels sprouts and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, cover, and cook for another 18-20 minutes.
10 Tips for Growing Brussels Sprouts
1. Grow best in cool weather (60°-65° F).
2. Need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
3. Space plants about 2 feet apart.
4. Mulch to retain moisture and hand-pull weeds.
5. Add stakes for support as they grow.
6. Prefer well-drained soil with monthly liquid fertilizer.
7. Too much nitrogen causes more leaves, and fewer sprouts.
8. Remove any yellowing lower leaves.
9. Pinch off tops to mature sprouts faster.
10. Harvest after the first or second frost, starting from the bottom up.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, but in moderation. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins and fiber but can cause urinary and digestive problems if given in large amounts.
Always introduce new foods slowly to your guinea pig.
Conclusion
Brussels sprouts are versatile, nutritious, and easy to grow.
From pairing ideas to delicious recipes, and growing tips, this guide has covered it all.
Whether you’re cooking a meal or starting a garden and can be a wonderful addition to your culinary and gardening adventures.
Enjoy these little green gems in your meals and reap their numerous health benefits.
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