Brussels sprouts are small cruciferous vegetables in the cabbage family, resembling mini cabbages. Each Brussels sprout is a small, round head attached to a short stem. They are often used as a side dish or ingredient in a variety of dishes.

The history of Brussels sprouts goes back hundreds of years in Europe. It is thought that these vegetables take their name from the city of Brussels in Belgium, where they have been grown and enjoyed since the 16th century. Over time, Brussels sprouts gained popularity in other parts of Europe and were incorporated into a variety of cuisines.

Initially, Brussels sprouts were more bitter and less attractive than modern varieties. Thanks to breeding and variety selection, today's Brussels sprouts are sweeter and more tender, making them more popular in many cuisines around the world.

Today, Brussels sprouts are appreciated for their unique taste and texture, as well as for their nutritional value. They are often steamed, roasted, sautéed or added to dishes such as soups and stews. While these little cabbages may elicit mixed reviews due to their distinctive flavor, they are an interesting source of nutrients and add variety to many meals.

Nutritional highlights of Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are true superfoods, rich in nutrients and health benefits. Here are just a few of their nutritional highlights:

1. Dietary fiber: Excellent source of fiber for healthy digestion, blood sugar regulation and satiety.
2. Vitamin C: Rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
3. Vitamin K: Important source of vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health.
4. Vitamin A: Contains vitamin A, beneficial for vision, skin and immune function.
5. Folate: Rich in folate, a B vitamin that supports cell growth and cardiovascular health.
6. Minerals: Source of minerals such as potassium and manganese, essential for various metabolic processes.
7. Antioxidants : Contains antioxidants, notably sulfur compounds, which protect against oxidative damage.
8. Phytochemicals: Includes glucosinolates, with potential anti-cancer properties and helping to detoxify the body.
9. Glucoraphanin: Presents glucoraphanin, contributing to cardiovascular health and blood lipid regulation.
10. Low calorie intake: Low in calories but rich in nutrients, ideal for a balanced diet and weight management.

By adding Brussels sprouts to your diet, you can benefit from their full range of nutrients, which can contribute to better overall health and the prevention of various diseases.

Choosing and storing Brussels sprouts

Choosing Brussels sprouts

When selecting fresh Brussels sprouts, follow these tips to choose high-quality specimens:

1. Dense heads: Look for Brussels sprouts with dense, compact heads. Avoid heads that appear loose or scattered.
2. Uniform size: Choose cabbages of uniform size for even cooking. Heads of similar size guarantee more consistent cooking.
3. Bright color: Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright and uniformly green. Avoid those with yellow or wilted spots.
4. No wilting: Avoid Brussels sprouts that show signs of wilting or decay.
5. Fresh stems: Make sure the stems of Brussels sprouts are fresh, unwilted and healthy-looking.

How to store Brussels sprouts

To maintain the freshness and quality of Brussels sprouts, follow these storage steps:

1. Refrigeration: Place unwashed Brussels sprouts in a perforated plastic bag or vegetable bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer.
2. Don't wash early: Avoid washing Brussels sprouts before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage.
3. Quick use: For best quality, use Brussels sprouts within 3 to 5 days of purchase.
4. Remove damaged leaves: If the outer leaves of Brussels sprouts are damaged, remove them before storing.
5. Freezing: If you have too many Brussels sprouts, you can blanch them quickly, cool them and freeze them for later use. Note that texture may be slightly affected after thawing.

By following these selection and storage tips, you can extend the life of Brussels sprouts while maintaining their flavor and quality for delicious, nutritious dishes.

Tips for preparing Brussels sprouts

Here are a few tips for preparing Brussels sprouts before cooking them:

1. Washing: Wash Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and residues. You can also soak them briefly in water with a spoonful of vinegar to remove impurities.
2. Removing outer leaves: Remove damaged or dirty outer leaves by gently peeling them off.
3. Cutting the stem: Cut a thin slice from the base of each Brussels sprout to remove the hard part of the stem.
4. Cross incision: Make a shallow cross incision at the base of each Brussels sprout for even cooking.
5. Additional cuts: Cut Brussels sprouts in half or into quarters, depending on size, to reduce cooking time.
6. Blanching (optional): Blanch Brussels sprouts for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then cool in iced water to reduce bitterness slightly.
7. Cooking: Steam, pan-fry, bake or roast Brussels sprouts according to personal preference.
8. Seasoning: Add spices, herbs or seasonings according to your taste to enhance the flavor.
9. Combine with other ingredients: Combine Brussels sprouts with other vegetables, proteins or grains to vary your meals.
10. Avoid overcooking: To preserve their crunchy texture and nutrients, avoid overcooking Brussels sprouts.

By following these tips, you can prepare Brussels sprouts for delicious flavor and texture, while preserving their nutritional benefits.

Why choose organic Brussels sprouts?

Favoring organic Brussels sprouts offers a number of benefits for your health, the environment and farmers' well-being. Here are just a few reasons to choose organic Brussels sprouts:

1. Chemical-free: Grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers, reducing exposure to chemical residues.
2. Nutritional quality: Organic growing methods promote healthier soils, resulting in higher levels of nutrients.
3. Taste and flavor: Often a stronger taste and richer flavor than conventional varieties.
4. Biodiversity and ecosystems: Organic farming promotes biodiversity and the health of soils and ecosystems.
5. Non-GMO: Grown without the use of genetically modified organisms.
6. Support for farmers: Support for sustainable, environmentally-friendly farming practices.
7. Water and environment: Reduced use of chemicals that can contaminate soil and water.
8. Preserving health: Reducing risks linked to pesticide and chemical fertilizer residues.
9. Sustainability: Positive long-term impact on the environment and human health.
10. Unique flavors: Organic varieties are often characterized by unique tastes, linked to respectful cultivation methods.

By choosing organic Brussels sprouts, you're contributing to your well-being, the preservation of the environment and a more sustainable food system.

Recipes with Brussels sprouts