Cooking Vegetables
Brussel-sprouts
Remember, brussel sprouts can be eaten sliced up and raw (please wash them first). The cooking just softens them and allows you to add more flavor.
In fact raw sprouts are better for you.
Boiling
Remove any old leaves from the outside, cut a thin slice from the stalk. If they are very large, cut in half.
There is no need to cut a cross in the end, in fact, this can make them go soggy. Boil for just 4-5 minutes – do not overboil or they will go soft.
(Overcooking brussels can also cause them to produce an unpleasant smell, caused by the sulphur in them).
Pan fry
Add some olive oil to a pan and fry pieces of smokey bacon or lardons for a few minutes while stirring, until they just start to colour. Remove from the pan (leaving the bacony oil). Add Brussel spouts cut in half and fry for about 5 – 10 minutes until they start to colour. Give them a stir , add the bacon and fry for another few minutes.
tip: try adding some sliced leeks and/or garlic for extra flavor.
Roast
Cut in half and tip into a roasting dish with some lardons or chopped bacon, and a drissel of olive oil. Roast at 200C/180C fan/gas 6 for 20-30 minutes.