Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous family, which also includes kohlrabi, cabbage, broccoli and mustard leaves. Although in appearance they resemble small cabbages, in fact they are a completely different vegetable. Their small dimensions mean they can be quickly prepared for maximum taste. Their texture is crisp and pleasant and their taste is slightly sweet (unlike the frozen product).
Brussels sprouts need nothing apart from short cooking, preferably steaming, quick blanching in hot water, then light sautéing or roasting. As a side dish, they are at their best when seasoned delicately with butter and garlic or soy sauce for Asian flavors. They can also be included in stir-fried vegetable dishes, pastas, salads and more.
Brussels sprouts have a variety of health benefits. In fact, they are nutritional bombs, bursting with protein, vitamins and minerals, and are considered highly nutritional vegetables that help to protect against vitamin A deficiency, bone density loss, iron-deficiency anemia, heart disease, and large colon and prostate cancer.