Purple Brussel sprouts: green Brussel sprouts tastier cousin
Recently, a friend was looking for new vegetables, she was sick of the same old. I rattled off a few obscure but well received ones but none peaked her interest. Knowing she loves brussel sprouts, I came upon a newish breed –Purple Brussel Sprouts.
Do purple brussel sprouts taste different than green brussel sprouts?
Purple brussel sprouts are a little sweeter and less pungent than green brussel sprouts. Their flavor is earthy and slightly nutty. An added bonus is that their leaves aren’t packed as tightly as their green brussel sprout cousins so they cook faster.
Nutrition Facts of purple brussel sprouts
Just like their green brussel sprout cousins, purple brussel sprouts are:
- Are low in calories
- High in fiber
- Packed full of vitamins and minerals including: Potassium, Vitamin A, Iron, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, and Calcium, Vitamin C
- There is more Vitamin C in both green and purple brussels sprouts than in an orange!
How do they turn brussel sprouts purple?
Purple brussel sprouts are grown from seeds. They were developed in the 1940’s The get their beautiful purple color from anthocyanins. The deep purple pigmentation of purple sprouts has more anthocyanins. Anthocyanins have more antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties than their green counterparts.
Preparing purple brussel sprouts can be quick and easy
- Can be prepared the same as green brussel sprouts will add of rich color to slaws
- Sauté with butter or olive oil
- Add to stir fry
- Add to soups
- Roast with other vegetables
- Roast with olive and parmesan cheese top with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasting and frying will also enhance their natural sweetness and show off their unique coloring.
The flavor of the purple brussels sprouts pairs well with bacon, pork belly, pancetta, game meats, apple, cheese, cream, lemon, maple, pecans, nutmeg, sage, shallots, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, cider vinegar, and mustard.
Fresh sprouts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
