Brussels Sprouts– All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What are brussels sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are a vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family. They look like mini cabbages and are related to other vegetables like kale, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy. They are nutritious and can be served as part of the main course meal or as a snack.

Where did brussels sprouts originate from

Brussels sprouts are native to Belgium, and their origins are believed to have been dated as far back as 1200. The first documented record of brussels sprouts dates back to 1587.

What are the nutritional value and benefits of brussels sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that have many benefits. They also are a low-calorie vegetable. 

They feature Vitamin K, which benefits bone health and helps the body produce healthy blood clotting measures. They contain Vitamin B6, which is essential for energy development. 

Brussels sprouts have Vitamin C and other strong antioxidants, promoting a robust immune system, which helps fight viruses and disease. It is believed that the antioxidants in brussels sprouts may help reduce the chance of getting cancer. The antioxidants help neutralize the free radicals in the body, which are believed to contribute to cancer growth and other diseases. 

The fiber in brussels sprouts will support digestive health. A diet rich in fiber is also believed to help reduce the blood sugar levels in the body and may prevent diabetes. 

Brussels sprouts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce blood triglycerides. It may also slow cognitive decline and decrease inflammation in the body.

Brussels sprouts contain iron, which helps with red blood cell development. Iron is crucial for growth and development. 

Brussels sprouts also contain potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

How are brussels sprouts grown?

Brussels sprouts are cool weather plants. They are typically planted in an area with full sun and rich soil. Seedlings are generally planted in the ground about 6 to 10 weeks before the first frost. 

Brussels sprouts can be transplanted from October to December. In cooler climates, farmers can grow a spring crop of brussels sprouts. 

It’s important to give brussels sprouts regular and consistent moisture to grow.

They will break through the soil with temperatures between 45 to 80 degrees. Brussels sprouts should be harvested when they are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. 

When are brussels sprouts in season?

Brussels sprouts are grown throughout the year across the world and are available nearly year-round. Typically the most popular time of year for availability for brussels sprouts is from September to mid-February.

How do you pick out brussels sprouts at the grocery store?

When picking out brussels sprouts, look for a bunch where the leaves are tight and compact. This will be a tell-tale sign that they are still within their prime. The most delicious brussels sprouts will be small, firm, and a brilliant bright green. If you’re using the brussels sprouts for a specific meal, it’ll be easier to prepare if you buy a bundle that is similar in size.

If you are looking to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for brussels sprouts via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products.

How to store brussels sprouts

The best way to store brussels sprouts is by placing them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper right after you’ve brought them home from the grocery store. They’ll last for a minimum of a week or longer that way. 

If you buy and leave the stalks on then, the brussels sprouts will stay fresher longer. 

If you need them to last longer, then place the stalks in water and store them in the refrigerator and break off the sprouts as you need them. 

How to tell if brussels sprouts are bad

The first signs to notice when brussels sprouts start to go bad will be that they will begin to brown on the edges, and the brilliant green leaves will begin to lighten. They will lose their sweet taste and begin to taste bitter and sour. 

The easiest and most noticeable way to know that brussels sprouts are going bad is by following your nose because aging brussels sprouts will start to smell sour. The harsh smell will get more intense the older the brussels sprouts get. 

What can I substitute for brussels sprouts?

If brussels sprouts are not available or you’re looking for alternatives for cooking a meal, you’ll need more options. There are a variety of fresh produce alternatives that you can use to substitute for brussels sprouts.

Cabbage is the closest alternative for brussels sprouts. They have a similar flavor and texture and are an excellent option for casseroles, soups, and stews.

Broccoli is a part of the related cruciferous family that brussels sprouts belong to. They both share the same dark green coloring and are high in nutrition. Broccoli and brussels sprouts will have a taste that closely resembles one another. Along with broccoli, cauliflower is another option that offers a similar taste.

Asparagus is another vegetable that has similarities to brussels sprouts. Their appearance is different since asparagus is a single-length spear, but their flavor closely resembles the brussels sprouts and broccoli.

Bok choy is a leafy alternative to brussels sprouts. It is also a part of the same cabbage family that brussels sprouts belongs to. 

Carrots are an option but differ in color since they are usually traditionally orange. They also come in yellow and purple varieties as well! They all have about the equivalent nutrient value, but their diverse coloring may mean they have various antioxidants. Carrots will taste differently, having a more sweet flavor to them. 

Where to find and buy brussels sprouts produce

Instacart offers fresh, high-quality brussels sprouts produce, as well as helpful same-day pick-up or delivery options near you. Use the app to start shopping to add an item. If you select the delivery option, your shopper will leave your order at the door and tell you when it has arrived.

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