Brussels sprouts are members of the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli and cabbage. They resemble miniature cabbages, with diameters of about 1 inch. They grow in bunches of 20 to 40 on the stem of a plant that grows as high as three feet tall.
Selection and storage
Good quality Brussels sprouts are firm, compact, and vivid green. They should be free of yellowed or wilted leaves and should not be puffy or soft in texture. Keep unwashed and untrimmed Brussels sprouts in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. Stored in a plastic bag, they can be kept for 10 days. If you want to freeze Brussels sprouts, steam them first for between three to five minutes. They will keep in the freezer for up to one year.
Preparation and serving methods
Before washing Brussels sprouts, remove stems and any yellow or discolored leaves. Wash them under running water to remove any insects that may be hiding in the inner leaves.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts by Ina Garten
