Mind your Brussels Sprouts!

How cute are these little mini cabbages?  Brussels Sprouts are a powerhouse full of anti-cancer fighting nutrients! Isothiocyanates and sulforaphane found in the sprouts are known to slow down cancer growth.    These little sprouts also supply a good amount of folate, potassium and vitamin K.   Brussels sprouts are a source of fermentable fibers (which can create gas) so can be troublesome for those with a sensitive belly, so be sure not to overdo them if that is the case for you!

In the summer, my husband and three kids ride the East Bay bike path from Providence to Bristol, Rhode Island.  Having biked quite a few bike paths, I have to admit this is one of our favorites.   In Bristol, we stop for lunch at the DeWolf Tavern.  Last year our favorite find was their side dish called, “Brussels Sprouts Hash.”  My 86 year old mom thinks only a  “dietitian” would have kids that actually want to eat this type of food.  For me, it’s a “dietitian” proud moment!  So, after tasting this amazing dish, I created my version at home!

Doesn’t that look amazing!  Of course, just roasting the Brussels Sprouts is another lower calorie option.  But for an occasional treat, try this special recipe!

Brussels Sprouts Hash

1-pint size container (10 oz) container Brussels sprouts

2 TB. Olive oil

1 TB. Butter

1 ½ cups cornbread bite size pieces (about ¼ of 8×8 pan of cornbread)

1 tsp. Bell’s Seasoning

Dash salt and pepper

Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  • Wash sprouts, removing outer leaves, trimming bottom and cut in half.
  • Place on cookie sheet and drizzle with 1 TB. Oil, ensuring that all sprouts get a bit of oil on them.
  • Roast in oven for 30-40 minutes until browned and fork tender.
  • Meanwhile, in large skillet over medium heat, add oil and butter.
  • Toss in cornbread and sprinkle with Bell’s Seasoning, cook until corn bread toasts up to a light brown color, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • When sprouts are done, fold them into corn bread mixture and season with salt and pepper.

Creating recipes for my family is one of my favorite moments at home.  Growing up in a family with 9 kids, my parents instilled the importance of families eating together.  So I posted this reminder in my kitchen, so that my family will remember that  special moments do happen when sharing a meal together.  Do you eat together as a family?