Brussels Sprouts with Butter
Vegetarian Brussels Sprouts with Butter Recipe from Moldova
Introduction
Brussels sprouts with butter is a classic side dish that is both delicious and nutritious. The combination of tender brussels sprouts, rich butter, and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
History
Brussels sprouts have been enjoyed for centuries, with records of them being cultivated as far back as the 13th century in Belgium. The addition of butter and breadcrumbs to brussels sprouts likely originated as a way to enhance the flavor and texture of the vegetable, making it more appealing to a wider audience.
Ingredients
- 2 lb / 1 kg brussels sprouts
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
- salt
How to prepare
- Choose small sprouts, remove any yellow leaves, and wash them thoroughly. Boil the sprouts in salted water over high heat for approximately 20 minutes.
- Drain the sprouts well. In a pan, melt the butter and fry the bread crumbs until they turn golden brown.
- Add the boiled sprouts to the pan and continue cooking for a few more minutes, shaking the pan to ensure the sprouts are evenly coated with the fried bread crumbs. Season with salt.
Variations
- For a twist on this classic recipe, try adding crispy bacon or grated Parmesan cheese to the brussels sprouts before serving. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure that your brussels sprouts are cooked to perfection, be sure to choose small sprouts and remove any yellow leaves before cooking. Boiling the sprouts in salted water helps to enhance their natural flavor, while frying them in butter and breadcrumbs adds a delicious crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Brussels sprouts with butter pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. It can also be served alongside mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the brussels sprouts before frying them in butter helps to ensure that they are tender and flavorful. Be sure to cook them until they are just fork-tender, as overcooking can result in mushy sprouts.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can boil the brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them in butter. This can help to save time on busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
To make this dish more visually appealing, try arranging the brussels sprouts on a serving platter and garnishing them with fresh herbs or lemon zest. You can also serve them in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Brussels sprouts with butter pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including roasted meats, grilled fish, and pasta dishes. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a crisp cider.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a pan over medium heat and cook until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of brussels sprouts with butter contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Brussels sprouts are a low-carb vegetable, making them a great option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. Each serving of brussels sprouts with butter contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The butter in this recipe adds richness and flavor, but also contributes to the overall fat content. Each serving of brussels sprouts with butter contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Brussels sprouts are a good source of plant-based protein, with each serving containing approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They are also a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and gluten (breadcrumbs), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.
Summary
Overall, brussels sprouts with butter is a nutritious and delicious side dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.
Summary
Brussels sprouts with butter is a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender brussels sprouts, rich butter, and crunchy breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Brussels Sprouts with butter. It was a sunny day in the middle of summer, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her charming little cottage by the countryside. Margaret was an excellent cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients in her cozy kitchen.
As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of roasted vegetables wafting from the oven. Margaret was bustling around, checking on her dishes and preparing a feast fit for a queen. I couldn't help but ask her what she was making, and she smiled mischievously before pulling out a tray of perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts.
"These are my famous Brussels sprouts with butter," she said proudly. "They are a family recipe passed down through generations, and I can't wait to share it with you."
I watched in awe as Margaret tossed the Brussels sprouts in a generous amount of melted butter, seasoned them with salt and pepper, and roasted them until they were tender and golden brown. The buttery aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste them.
As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Brussels sprouts, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The buttery richness paired perfectly with the slight bitterness of the sprouts, creating a dish that was both comforting and decadent. I couldn't get enough, and I begged Margaret for the recipe.
She laughed and agreed to share it with me, writing it down on a yellowed piece of parchment paper that she handed to me with a wink. "Just promise me you'll make it for your family and friends," she said.
And make it I did. I brought the recipe home with me and whipped up a batch of Brussels sprouts with butter for my loved ones. They were a hit, and soon enough, they became a staple at every family gathering and dinner party I hosted.
Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding in some chopped garlic for extra flavor and a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of brightness. I've even passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who have all fallen in love with the dish just as I did.
But no matter how many times I make Brussels sprouts with butter, I always think back to that sunny day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first discovered the recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my own home. The memories of laughter, good food, and friendship will always be intertwined with the simple yet delicious dish that Margaret so generously shared with me.
And so, every time I pull a tray of roasted Brussels sprouts out of the oven, I say a silent thank you to my dear friend Margaret, for showing me that the best recipes are those shared with love and passed down through generations.
Categories
| Brussels Sprout Recipes | Moldovan Recipes | Moldovan Vegetarian | Vegetarian Side Dish Recipes |