Brussels sprouts are admittedly not for everyone. We answer the question of whether Brussels sprouts are healthy and explain what ingredients are in the winter vegetables.
These ingredients make Brussels sprouts healthy
Opinions are divided on Brussels sprouts: some love it, others don't like it at all because of its bitter taste. The bitter substances work, however Cholesterol-lowering and digestive and help keep Brussels sprouts healthy.
Furthermore, the cabbage sprouts are suitable for a healthy diet (if they are not eaten with béchamel sauce, of all things) because they contain only 36 kilocalories and 0.3 grams of fat per 100 grams. However, one should not overdo it with the Brussels sprouts, because excessive consumption of cabbage can lead to gas. In addition, the florets contain a lot vitamin C and minerals like Potassium, fluorine, folic acid, magnesium and zinc.
Another ingredient in Brussels sprouts is also very valuable: mustard oils or glucosinolates. These are chemical compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, people who suffer from gout should exercise caution when consuming Brussels sprouts because the vegetable has high levels of purine.
Is Raw Brussels Sprouts Healthy?
As a raw food, Brussels sprouts are less suitable. The cabbage sprouts are not poisonous, however quite hard and therefore difficult to digest. If in doubt, you should cook it briefly. However, Brussels sprouts can also be eaten raw in small quantities, for example by grating them finely or cutting them into thin slices.
This is how you prepare Brussels sprouts in a healthy way
When buying, you should make sure that the florets are fresh. Remove the outer and withered leaves before preparation and cut off the stalk. The Brussels sprouts should Do not cook for more than 10 to 15 minutesso that he doesn't lose too many nutrients. To reduce the bitter taste, the cabbage sprouts can be cooked in broth.
Brussels sprouts also taste less bitter when they are already once got frost, usually in November or December. The cold increases the sugar content in the vegetables and the bitter substances are less pronounced. You can find more information in our article on cooking Brussels sprouts.
Brussels sprouts: origin and season
Brussels sprouts come from Belgium and are therefore also called Brussels cabbage. Winter vegetables were first mentioned by name in the 16th century. The season lasts from September to February. The florets can be kept in the refrigerator for about five days.
For more ideas, you can try our Brussels sprouts recipes. We also explain how you can freeze Brussels sprouts and whether corn is healthy.
Video tip: Six reasons why chocolate is healthy