Brussels sprouts are such a cool vegetable, and it is so interesting to see how they grow on the stalk. Normally, by the time they get to you, they are being sold individually, and then what? Are you supposed to buy them on the stalk or individually? Should we just buy the bagged version or sort them out ourselves? And, then how are we supposed to prepare them once we get home? The purpose of this post is to help you answer all of those questions, so that you can enjoy Brussels sprouts to their fullest!
(This post is an excerpt from The Produce Nerd’s Grocery Guide, with input provided by Lauren Hitchcock from Hitchcock Farms. You can learn more about the Grocery Guide, which covers this information for 55 different produce items, with input from 26 crop-specific companies HERE.)
What to look for when picking the best quality Brussels sprouts?
- Look for bright green, tightly packed heads, that are firm to the touch.
- Smaller and medium sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender than the larger ones.
Common issues to avoid when selecting Brussels sprouts?
- Look out for yellowed leaves, as this is a sign of age.
- Wilted or limp leaves are a sign of dehydration, most commonly due to poor refrigeration.
- Dark spots are usually a sign of bruising to the cell structure of the plant, or could indicate a type of mold or fungus.
- Look out for holes in the leaves due to pest damage, (this could mean some possible live insects are lurking inside).
- Light discoloration on the butt of the sprout is normal, but dark brown discoloration means they are aged.
Are there any common issues that are specifically caused by bad grocery store handling?
- Brussels sprouts are pretty robust and less prone to damage from grocery store handling, but poor refrigeration will cause rapid deterioration. The ideal temperature for storing Brussels sprouts is about 36-38 degrees. Once you break the cold chain, the clock starts ticking on the shelf-life of any fresh produce. Good refrigeration is key!
Are there any new cultivars that are being grown that might have different quality indicators or common issues to look out for?
- There are a lot of different varieties out there based on the growing region and time of year, and each have different characteristics, but the basics remain the same. We grow purple brussels sprouts during the summer and fall season, and those tend to turn greener with age, so look out for that in stores.
What is the best way to store Brussels sprouts at home?
- Store unwashed and untrimmed in a tightly sealed bag in the crisper
What is your favorite way to eat and prepare Brussels sprouts?
- We like to cut them in half, rub them with a little olive oil, salt and pepper and roast them in the oven, until slightly crispy. It’s simple and delicious.
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