John Myers
Quick-freeze Brussels sprouts individually on a cookie sheet. For fastest freezing, place the sheet close to where cold air enters your freezer. After sprouts are frozen, tuck them into freezer bags in bulk. Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
Can I freeze fresh Brussels sprouts without blanching?
If you don’t blanch the Brussels sprouts, they won’t retain their health benefits and nutrients. Furthermore, they won’t stay firm and fresh. Instead, they will get mushy upon defrosting. Also, if you freeze Brussel sprouts without blanching, their shelf-life will decrease, and they will develop a foul odor.
Can you freeze fresh raw Brussels sprouts?
You can freeze either brussels sprouts that you grow yourself or that you happen to buy a large batch in the store. That said, it is especially worthwhile to freeze when you have homegrown or locally-raised fresh sprouts to preserve their freshness.
How long do you blanch Brussels sprouts for freezing?
Blanch the large sprouts for 5 minutes, the medium sprouts for 4 minutes, and the small sprouts for 3 minutes. You can either cook them in large, medium, and small batches or add the medium ones after the large ones have cooked for 1 minute and then add the small ones after 2 minutes have passed.
Should I blanch Brussels sprouts?
Your first step should always be to blanch the Brussels sprouts. This is basically when they get submerged in boiling water just for a few minutes, not until they’re fully cooked, but just enough to take away some of the bitterness. Blanching also softens them and preserves their beautiful bright green color.
Why are my frozen Brussels sprouts brown inside?
Examine the stem bottom of the Brussels sprouts. If they are brown or black in color, it is a sign of mold and you should discard them right away.
How long do Brussels sprouts last in freezer?
Once dry, place your portioned-out sprouts into a food-safe plastic freezer bag, like Glad® Flex’n Seal Freezer Gallon Bags and remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help your Brussels sprouts last in the freezer for up to twelve months (yes, a whole year of Brussels sprouts satisfaction!).
Why are Brussels sprouts not good for you?
In addition to having a bitter flavor, raw Brussels sprouts may increase gas in some people. They contain an indigestible fiber called raffinose, which can be tough on the stomach.
Do Brussels sprouts make you poop?
Sprouting appears to specifically increase the amount of insoluble fiber, a type of fiber that helps form stool and move it through the gut, reducing the likelihood of constipation.
How do you blanch Brussels sprouts for freezing?
Blanch small sprouts 3 minutes, medium ones 4 minutes, and large ones 5 minutes. Use a steamer basket to shift sprouts easily between boiling and ice water. Avoid overheating the sprouts, which can contribute to post-freeze mushiness. After blanching, move Brussels sprouts into the freezer as rapidly as possible.
Should you cut Brussels sprouts in half before cooking?
Just be sure there is some space between your sprouts on the roasting pan so they roast and don’t steam. Place the sprouts cut-side down: Trim and halve the sprouts and roast them with their cut side against the baking sheet. The cut side will caramelize beautifully while the outer leaves crisp.
Should I parboil Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are quite dense little vegetables, so parboiling them gives you a headstart on the cooking process. It is especially helpful for dishes involving grilled or roasted Brussels sprouts, because it softens them in the middle.
How do you make frozen Brussels sprouts not bitter?
Instead, preheat your oven to 400°, and drop your frozen sprouts directly on a rimmed baking sheet and toss them in extra-virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and/or whatever other spices you’d like. No need to let them thaw—we’re just going to go right ahead and hit them with a blast of heat.
