Brussels sprouts have long been a staple in many cuisines, particularly during the holiday season. However, their dense, compact structure can make them intimidating to cook, especially for those who are new to the world of vegetables. Shaving Brussels sprouts is a great way to make them more accessible and enjoyable, as it allows for faster cooking times and a more delicate texture. In this article, we will explore the various ways to cook shaved Brussels sprouts, including sautéing, roasting, and boiling.
Why Shave Brussels Sprouts?
Shaving Brussels sprouts is a simple process that involves slicing them thinly, usually using a mandoline or food processor. This technique has several benefits, including:
- Faster cooking times: Shaved Brussels sprouts cook much faster than whole or halved sprouts, making them ideal for busy weeknight meals.
- Increased surface area: Shaving the sprouts increases their surface area, allowing for better browning and caramelization.
- Improved texture: Shaved Brussels sprouts have a more delicate texture than whole sprouts, making them a great addition to salads and other dishes.
How to Shave Brussels Sprouts
Shaving Brussels sprouts is a relatively simple process that requires some basic kitchen tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Using a Mandoline
A mandoline is a long, flat kitchen tool with a sharp blade. It’s ideal for slicing vegetables thinly and evenly.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged or discolored leaves.
- Place the sprouts on the mandoline and slice them thinly, using a gentle sawing motion.
- Collect the shaved sprouts in a bowl and set them aside.
Using a Food Processor
A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to chop, slice, and shred vegetables.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged or discolored leaves.
- Place the sprouts in the food processor and pulse until they are shredded or sliced.
- Collect the shaved sprouts in a bowl and set them aside.
Cooking Methods for Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Shaved Brussels sprouts can be cooked using a variety of methods, including sautéing, roasting, and boiling. Here are some tips and techniques for each method:
Sautéing Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Sautéing is a quick and easy way to cook shaved Brussels sprouts. Here’s a basic recipe:
- 1 pound shaved Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped bacon or pancetta
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the shaved Brussels sprouts and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using bacon or pancetta, crumble it into the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Roasting Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts. Here’s a basic recipe:
- 1 pound shaved Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped bacon or pancetta
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the sprouts are tender and lightly browned.
- If using bacon or pancetta, crumble it into the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
Boiling Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Boiling is a simple way to cook shaved Brussels sprouts, but it can result in a loss of nutrients and flavor. Here’s a basic recipe:
- 1 pound shaved Brussels sprouts
- 4 cups water
Salt to taste
Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the shaved Brussels sprouts and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they are tender.
- Drain the sprouts and season with salt to taste.
Adding Flavor to Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Shaved Brussels sprouts can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic and lemon: Saute the sprouts with garlic and lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: Drizzle the sprouts with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Chili flakes: Add chili flakes to the sprouts for a spicy kick.
- Grated cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the sprouts for a creamy, savory flavor.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes that feature shaved Brussels sprouts as the main ingredient:
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
- 1 pound shaved Brussels sprouts
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy.
- Toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, chopped pecans, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Top the salad with crispy bacon and serve.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potato Hash
- 1 pound shaved Brussels sprouts
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
- Toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with the roasted sweet potatoes and serve.
Conclusion
Shaved Brussels sprouts are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. By sautéing, roasting, or boiling the sprouts, you can bring out their natural sweetness and add flavor with herbs and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, shaved Brussels sprouts are a great addition to any meal.
What are the health benefits of eating shaved Brussels sprouts?
Shaved Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-rich food that offers numerous health benefits when consumed. They are high in vitamins C and K, and also contain significant amounts of fiber, folate, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help to boost the immune system, support healthy digestion, and even reduce the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
In addition to these benefits, shaved Brussels sprouts are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a weight loss diet. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Overall, incorporating shaved Brussels sprouts into your diet can have a significant impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
How do I shave Brussels sprouts?
Shaving Brussels sprouts is a simple process that can be done using a few different methods. One way to shave Brussels sprouts is to use a food processor with the shredding attachment. Simply trim the ends off of the Brussels sprouts, cut them in half, and feed them through the processor. This will give you long, thin shreds of Brussels sprouts that are perfect for sautéing or roasting.
Another way to shave Brussels sprouts is to use a mandoline or sharp knife. Simply trim the ends off of the Brussels sprouts and slice them into thin rounds. Then, stack the rounds on top of each other and slice them into thin strips. This method can be a bit more time-consuming, but it allows for more control over the size and shape of the shreds.
What is the best way to cook shaved Brussels sprouts?
The best way to cook shaved Brussels sprouts is to sauté them in a pan with some oil or butter. This method allows the Brussels sprouts to cook quickly and evenly, and it brings out their natural sweetness. Simply heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat, add the shaved Brussels sprouts, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Another way to cook shaved Brussels sprouts is to roast them in the oven. This method brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts and gives them a crispy texture. Simply toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with some oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Can I use frozen shaved Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen shaved Brussels sprouts as a substitute for fresh. Frozen Brussels sprouts are just as nutritious as fresh, and they can be just as delicious. Simply thaw the frozen Brussels sprouts according to the package instructions, and then use them in your recipe as you would fresh.
One thing to keep in mind when using frozen shaved Brussels sprouts is that they may be more prone to overcooking. This is because the freezing process can break down the cell walls of the Brussels sprouts, making them more tender and prone to mushiness. To avoid this, simply cook the frozen Brussels sprouts for a shorter amount of time, or until they are tender but still crisp.
How do I add flavor to shaved Brussels sprouts?
There are many ways to add flavor to shaved Brussels sprouts, depending on your personal preferences. One way to add flavor is to use aromatics such as garlic, ginger, and onions. Simply sauté the aromatics in a pan before adding the shaved Brussels sprouts, and then cook until the Brussels sprouts are tender.
Another way to add flavor to shaved Brussels sprouts is to use seasonings and spices. For example, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the Brussels sprouts a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of lemon zest to give them a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also use herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to add a savory flavor to the Brussels sprouts.
Can I use shaved Brussels sprouts in salads?
Yes, you can use shaved Brussels sprouts in salads. In fact, shaved Brussels sprouts make a great addition to many different types of salads. They add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor to the salad, and they pair well with a variety of ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
One way to use shaved Brussels sprouts in a salad is to combine them with other winter vegetables such as kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes. You can also add some crumbled blue cheese or chopped nuts to give the salad a tangy, crunchy texture. Simply toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with your desired ingredients, and then top with a homemade vinaigrette.
Can I make shaved Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make shaved Brussels sprouts ahead of time. In fact, shaving the Brussels sprouts ahead of time can be a great way to save time during the week. Simply shave the Brussels sprouts and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
One thing to keep in mind when making shaved Brussels sprouts ahead of time is that they may lose some of their texture and flavor. This is because the Brussels sprouts will start to break down and release their natural enzymes, which can make them taste bitter. To avoid this, simply squeeze some lemon juice over the shaved Brussels sprouts before storing them in the refrigerator. This will help to preserve their texture and flavor.