How to cook Brussels Sprout

Brussels sprout is a small green leafy vegetable much like cabbage; in fact they resemble small cabbage. Brussels sprout are very nutritious and contains high levels of Vitamins A & B, folic acid and dietary fiber, amongst other nutrients is smaller quantities. They (Brussels sprout) also contain some proteins that aid in fighting against colon cancer. Like many other vegetables Brussels sprout can be prepared in many ways, however there are steps that must be done before can begin.

Instructions in cleaning up your Brussels sprout

1. Soak Brussels sprout in warm water for 5 minutes, this will get rid of any insects that might still be between the leaves.
2. Remove from warm water and rinse in water.
3. Cut the stem away from the base of the Brussels sprout; however, do not cut too close to the base as this will cause the leaves to fall off.

Required Tools

• Vegetable steamer

Required Materials

• Brussels sprout
• Water
• Salt to taste

Instructions for steaming Brussels Sprout

1. Add water to vegetable steamer about 2inches from the base of the steamer.
2. Set over a medium flame and bring to a boil.
3. Add Brussels sprout to the steamer and season with salt to taste.
4. Allow to steam for 6-8 minutes or until leaves are bright green and tender.
5. Remove from steamer, and enjoy.

A second method to cooking Brussels sprout is by braising them.

Required tools

• Large skillet

Required Materials

• Brussels sprout
• Olive oil
• Chicken stock

Instructions

1. Heat olive in the skill over a medium flame.
2. Add Brussels sprout to skillet and sauté fro 2minutes, taking care not to burn the sprouts.
3. Add chicken stock to skillet and and allow to simmer, covered for about 15 minutes.

It takes about 2 cups of chicken stock to cook 1 pound of sprout.

4. When the stock reduces, simply remove from heat and serve.

Tips

• To help your sprouts to cook faster, cut a X into the stem of the Brussels sprout however not too deep though.
• To help in cooking you can also cut the sprouts into halves/quarters depending on the size of the sprout, plus it will help in the presentation of your meal.
• Like other vegetables Brussels sprout are best with a little crisp, so take care not to overcook them.
• To make your Brussels sprouts come alive, many herbs and various meats can be added, take for example adding bacon, onion and garlic to the braised Brussels sprout and you will have a meal that you are sure to enjoy.