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Bow down to Brussels sprout and never look back

If you don't like Brussels sprouts, you might be doing them wrong.

Sorghum pilaf with roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries and grapes

Sorghum pilaf with roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries and grapes. Source: Masha Davydova

In terms of polarising food choices, Brussels sprouts are right up there with durian fruit and coriander. It may well be for the same reason, too. Just as coriander has been found to taste like soap to people who carry a particular gene, Brussels sprouts apparently morph into sulphur for .
Well, maybe not sulphur exactly. Just very, very bitter and unpalatable and basically yuck. We've all heard the complaints.

Such a shame for some, but it does mean more Brussels sprouts for those of us who only taste sweet, nutty goodness. Unless you cook them for too long, of course. Then we are totally on board with the whole bitter thing.

Assuming you're not going to overcook these dishes, get ready to bow down in awe. When Brussels sprouts are good, they are positively angelic. Now that's enough to convert even the most adamant Brussels sprout hater.
Brussel sprouts with gunpowder
Keep the chilli coming and deep fry the sprouts! Source: The Cook Up with Adam Liaw
Adam Liaw knows the best way to treat Brussels sprouts is to . That's the Southern Indian gunpowder spice mix, of course. A good sprinkling of urad dal, chana dal and a bunch of other spices brings out B. Sprout's fiercer side.
brussels sprout
The only thing that can make Brussels sprouts and figs even better is a pomegranate molasses dressing. Source: SBS
Want to know the best way to get on Brussels sprouts' sweet side? . They won't need much else to taste heaven-scent.
Sorghum pilaf with roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries and grapes
If you are looking for a flavourful veggie dish to complete your dinner table, this one is a winner. Source: Masha Davydova
 adds sour notes from cranberries, sweetness from grapes, freshness from herbs and awesomeness from Brussels sprouts.
Brussels sprout and Havarti toasted sandwich
A winter's night, bitter wind blowing, but you're oblivious to it all as you sink your teeth into your Brussels sprout toasted sambo. Source: Desiree Nielsen
Putting Brussels sprouts on a toastie is admittedly a bit left of centre. But that's what makes so good. The Sprouts are gently sautéed until slightly caramelised, bringing out a sweetness that sings to the melted Havarti cheese.
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Apples and honey add sweetness to this irresistible roast. Source: Alan Benson
Boiling is the reason so many people hate Brussels sprouts. Or most vegetables, really. Don't boil them, roast them. does exactly that with added bacon. Tempted yet?
Kale Caesar salad with roasted brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts add crouton-like crunch to this thoroughly modern take on a classic Caesar. Source: Abrams
Are we pushing our luck by adding kale? You can only imagine that this brassica-laden dish packs a bit of an, er, after-punch. Don't worry, the garlic lemon dressing on adds plenty of acid to knock the brassicas into line.
Grilled beef skewers with pepper berry sauce
Pepper berry sauce adds a touch of sweetness to beef and Brussels sprouts skewers. Source: On Country Kitchen
Small Brussels sprouts are simply adorable . They also add crunch and a hint of bitterness. Note the crunch: this is not the time to cook your Sprouts until soft. Actually, it's never the time to cook your Sprouts until soft...
Brussell-Sprouts-1_987701415
Who could resist Brussels sprouts cooked in a sauce of bacon and cream? So indulgent you'll forget you're eating vegetables. Source: My Family Feast
Now that anyone who endured Brussels sprouts at Chrismas as a kid might think they know well. They won't, though. While the recipe does break the golden rule of never boiling Sprouts, it's very clear that you only boil them until tender. Not mushy. Not sulphurous. Just until tender.
Warm green slaw
A beautiful, crunchy warm slaw. Source: Mary's Kitchen Crush
feasting simply has to contain Brussels sprouts. Sliced very thinly and baked, they are crunchy and oh-so-good alongside kale and radicchio.

All hail the Brussels sprout!

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SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only.
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3 min read
Published 17 June 2021 11:34am
Updated 24 June 2021 3:08pm
By SBS Food bite-sized
Source: SBS


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