Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts, often highlighted for their unique flavor and preparation.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Brussels sprouts, a cultivar group of wild cabbage, were likely cultivated in Brussels, Belgium, leading to their name. Their cultivation spread through Europe in the 16th century, though they remained relatively unpopular for a long time. Modern crispy Brussels sprouts, a more recent culinary trend, aims to overcome past perceptions of the vegetable as bitter and bland.
Crispy Brussels sprouts have gained immense popularity in recent years, transitioning from a disliked vegetable to a trendy and widely appreciated side dish. Their presence on restaurant menus reflects a shift in culinary preferences and a greater emphasis on creative vegetable preparations.
Restaurant Trend
Crispy Brussels sprouts are now a staple on many restaurant menus, particularly in gastropubs and modern American restaurants. This signals a widespread acceptance and appreciation for the dish.
Home Cooking Revival
The dish has also seen a resurgence in home cooking, with countless recipes available online and in cookbooks, catering to various dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
Vegetable Transformation
The crispy Brussels sprouts phenomenon highlights the potential for transforming traditionally disliked vegetables into exciting and delicious culinary experiences.
Crispy Brussels sprouts offer a delightful combination of bitter, savory, and sometimes sweet or spicy flavors, balanced by a textural contrast.
The inherent slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts is tempered by roasting or frying, which caramelizes the outer leaves and creates a nutty sweetness. Savory notes are often introduced through the use of fats like bacon fat, olive oil, or butter, and further enhanced with seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder. Some preparations incorporate sweet elements like maple syrup, balsamic glaze, or dried cranberries, while others add a spicy kick with chili flakes or sriracha.
Preparation is Key
Ensure Brussels sprouts are dry before cooking. Washing them and thoroughly drying them with paper towels helps prevent steaming and promotes browning.
High Heat is Your Friend
Use high heat when roasting or frying to achieve optimal crispiness. The high temperature allows the sprouts to caramelize quickly without becoming soggy.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan
Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the sprouts to steam instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
Cut Sides Down
Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet or in the pan. This maximizes contact with the heat and promotes browning.
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