Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This steamed Brussel sprouts recipe is your answer. Forget those overcooked, bitter sprouts of your childhood – this method delivers perfectly tender, subtly sweet, and vibrantly green vegetables that will even win over the pickiest eaters. It’s a fantastic addition to any meal, a quick dinner idea, and a testament to how simple healthy eating can be.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- Optional additions: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, toasted slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, lemon zest.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Sprouts
Rinse your Brussel sprouts thoroughly and trim off the ends. Halve or quarter them depending on their size – you want relatively uniform pieces for even steaming.
Step 2: Steam to Perfection
Place the Brussel sprouts in a steamer basket set over a pot of boiling water. Ensure the water level doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite. Overcooked sprouts will be mushy.
Step 3: Season and Sizzle
While the sprouts are steaming, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the steamed Brussel sprouts. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Enhance the Flavor
Sauté the sprouts for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they're slightly browned and caramelized. If using, add the balsamic vinegar during the last minute of sautéing to add a tangy sweetness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your delicious steamed Brussel sprouts immediately. Garnish with toasted slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, or a squeeze of lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This simple side dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, fish, or even a hearty vegetarian main course.
Tips for Steaming Brussel Sprouts:
- Don't overcrowd the steamer basket: Leave some space between the sprouts for even steaming.
- Test for doneness: Pierce a sprout with a fork. It should be tender but still slightly firm.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your sprouts, you may need to adjust the steaming time.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: Add a drizzle of maple syrup during the sautéing step for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet for a little heat.
- Roasted: For a crispier texture, roast the sprouts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. The nutritional content will vary based on serving size and added ingredients.
This easy, healthy, and delicious recipe will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's a perfect example of how simple it can be to create flavorful and nutritious meals. Enjoy!