Friday Food Fact: Brussels Sprouts

I know sometimes this food comes with bad wrap, especially with kids, but give it a go...I really love these things and eat them often. You gotta always try something at least once:)

Food: Brussels Sprouts

History: These little greens that look like small cabbages originated in Europe and were named for the capital city of Belgium. Brussels sprouts were first introduced to England and France in the 19th century and were later brought to North America when the French settled in Louisiana.

Nutritional Benefit: Although Brussels sprouts are small they are packed with nutrients. They are high in vitamin C, A and E which are great anti-oxidants and also provide anti-inflammatory protection. They are very dense in vitamin K and folate. Vitamin K helps the body absorb calcium and promotes bone health in addition to help in the prevention of hardening arteries. Folate helps in the production of red blood cells and also helps prevent anemia.

Ways to Cook: First you want to make sure you wash them. Many times there is dirt on the outside that we don't want. After washing them I generally discard the outer layer that has bruised or torn leaves. From here you can do one of two things.

1) Cut the bottom off perpendicular to the sprout. 2) Cut an upside down V in the sprout and remove the hard stem.

If I'm going to steam them I use the first method. If I bake them I cut an upside down V. My favorite way to prepare them is to cut them in half after cutting the stem out in a V. Then I put them flat side up in a baking pan, drizzle with olive oil, grind some fresh black pepper, sprinkle on some garlic powder and thinly sliced red onions and then bake at 375 until lightly browned. If you like you could sprinkle a little bit of sea salt over the top but due to my high blood pressure, and my feeling that you simply don't need to for great taste, I don't.