Sweet and Sour Brussels Sprouts

This is the recipe – and cooking technique – that will change minds about Brussels sprouts. It won over my girlfriend’s mother, who previously insisted that the mini cabbage-like vegetable was gross. A short roast in the oven beautifully caramelizes the sprouts while locking in flavor and nutrition – unlike boiling or even steaming. You don’t want to miss out on the multitude of vitamins here. I also find that with roasting, they’re less likely to turn to mush and bring back unpleasant childhood vegetable memories.

Farmers sell Brussels sprouts either right on the stalk – which is kind of fun to take home – or already sliced off. Either way, you’ll want to give them a trim off the bottom and, if they look like they need it, a peeling of the outer layers. A quick rinse isn’t a bad idea either. Personally, when I’m just making these at home, I don’t go too crazy with cleaning and trimming. Do what makes sense to you.

Though, what really makes this dish work is that it has all five of the basic tastes at work. The sourness from the vinegar, sweetness from the sugar, umami from the Worcestershire, saltiness from the soy sauce, and bitterness from the sprouts themselves.

A good flavor profile and a smart cooking technique will help make just about anything taste great. Try these sprouts as a side at your next holiday dinner.