Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bread Pudding Recipe (2024)

FAQs

When not to use brussel sprouts? ›

Throw out fresh brussel sprouts that have a foul odor, yellow or wilted leaves, a mushy or slimy texture, or dark spots. Use fresh brussel sprouts within 1–2 weeks of getting them.

Like all cabbages, Brussels are unavoidably fibrous and dense. You must overcome this by either cooking them in salty water until fork tender (blanching), or by roasting at a high (over 425F) temperature for upwards of 20 minutes. To guarantee great texture, do both!

For best results, soak your Brussels sprouts in salt water. Not only does salt act to tenderize the dense sprouts, but it will also help to season them all the way through. It won't take a lot — just add 1 tablespoon of salt per 1 quart of water and toss in trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts.

Unlike other vegetables, Brussels sprouts can be parboiled (even a day ahead) to reduce the roasting time without hurting their texture. That means the sprouts can be popped in the oven while the meat is resting before carving. Of course, if the main course is grilled or pan-cooked, the oven will be free for roasting.

Brussels sprouts are a source of fiber and may reduce inflammation. This cruciferous vegetable offers nutrients, including antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts, from roasting and grilling them to adding them to salads and soups.

Alternaria Leaf Spot and Blackleg are the fungal party crashers ruining your Brussels sprouts' vibe. These fungi love a moist environment and will exploit any weakness in your plants, be it a tiny wound or just the plant's natural openings.

Not using enough oil.

The other secret to ridiculously crispy Brussels sprouts is tossing them in plenty of oil. We like to use olive oil, but plain vegetable oil is great too. If the sprouts are well-coated, they'll caramelize and char instead of simply softening in the oven.

Sauté: Wash sprouts under cold running water and remove any yellow spots and then cut them in half.

Brussels sprouts are a nutritious vegetable in the cruciferous family. While they're often enjoyed cooked using methods like roasting, steaming, or boiling, you can also enjoy Brussels sprouts raw. The most common side effect of eating raw Brussels sprouts is that they may cause gas in some people.

Powdery Mildew doesn't usually kill the plant outright, though it slows it down and makes it less productive. Powdery Mildew is most problematic in shady, humid, areas with poor air circulation, so give your plants good air circulation (provide support for climbing varieties is important).

How can I improve the taste of Brussels sprouts? ›

Pan-Roasted Brussels Sprouts (That Aren't Bitter)

A quick blanching and caramelization process ensures a sweet, not bitter, taste. Enhanced with garlic, lemon juice, maple syrup, and Parmesan, it's a delightful side dish for any meal.

Steaming Brussels sprouts preserves more of the nutrients and antioxidants than any other cooking method. And they turn out tasting like crisp-tender, sweet little nuggets. Plus they're just about the quickest veggie side dish you can cook.

Prepare the vegetables: leave them whole or cut them in half if large, then blanch them in salted boiling water until crisp-tender (al dente), about 4 min. Drain well, then serve.

Place them face down and resist the urge to move them around. A searing hot baking sheet with the brussels cut side down is the key to crispy brussel perfection.

The best pans for Roasted Brussels sprouts:

If you're going the baking sheet method, make sure that you use parchment paper over tinfoil. It'll create much crispier and tender Brussels sprouts. And also be sure to spread the Brussels sprouts out in an even layer!

If any of the leaves have brown spots or are yellowing, it's a sign of early spoilage. If you remove the blemished leaves and the interior looks OK, you can still use the sprout. However, if the interior leaves are also showing blemishes or yellowing, it's best to toss it (or compost it, if you can).

Place the sprouts in the fridge as soon as you get home and use them before the best-before date. Use within two days of purchase if they are not pre-packaged. Throw away any sprouts that are past their best-before date or that have lost their crispness, look wilted or smell musty.

Due to the high number of outbreaks, sprouts have been labeled as a “high risk” food. This means that people with compromised immune systems, such as children, elderly, pregnant women and those who are sick or taking medications that impair the immune system, should avoid eating sprouts.

Even though Brussels sprouts can last up to a week in the fridge, sometimes a little longer, their taste gets stronger and less sweet with time. They are at their best when prepared within three to four days of purchase. Avoid washing Brussels sprouts until you're ready to prepare them, as the moisture can cause decay.