Brussels sprouts are not only nutritious but also delicious when cooked, but keeping these green gems crisp can be a challenge. As you cook your way through, knowing how to store Brussels sprouts will ensure you enjoy them at their best for as long as possible.
These little veggies are best eaten shortly after harvest when they are firm and full of flavour. But even if you buy them from the market, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh. Knowing how to keep your Brussels sprouts crisp will make all the difference whether you are cooking a warm side dish or adding them to a salad.
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Here is how to store Brussels sprouts so they stay crunchy and tasty until you are ready to cook.
7 Ways to Keep Your Brussels Sprouts Crisp
Buy Fresh Sprouts
When buying Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green and tightly closed ones. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or blemishes as they are old. Fresh Brussels sprouts taste better and retain their crispiness longer. Store them immediately after purchase to preserve their quality.
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Store In The Fridge
To keep your Brussels sprouts crisp, always store them in the fridge. Place them in a perforated plastic bag or a container with air holes. This prevents moisture buildup which can lead to mold and spoilage, so your sprouts will stay fresh for up to a week.
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Leave Them Whole
Do not cut or trim Brussels sprouts until you are ready to use them. Leaving them whole helps retain moisture and crispiness, so they do not get soggy. The outer leaves act as a barrier to keep them textured.
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Do Not Wash Until Use
Moisture can make Brussels sprouts spoil faster, so do not wash them until you want to cook. If you wash them beforehand, make sure to dry them well before storing them, this will keep them crisp and dry for a long time.
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Use A Damp Paper Towel
For short-term storage, you can place your Brussels sprouts in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel. The slight moisture helps keep them crisp without getting soggy. This is a good way to keep them fresh for a few days.
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Store Away From Ethylene Producing Fruits
Brussels sprouts are sensitive to ethylene gas which is produced by fruits like apples, bananas and avocados. Store them away from these fruits to prevent premature ripening and spoilage.
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Blanch And Freeze For Long Term Storage
If you have too many Brussels sprouts, blanching and freezing them is a great option. Blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and freeze in airtight bags. This will preserve their crispiness and flavour for months.
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Follow these tips and your Brussels sprouts will stay crispy for as long as possible. Remember to choose whole sprouts and do not wash until ready to use. Take the time to store them correctly and you’ll get more out of your meals and enjoy the taste and texture of Brussels sprouts in salads, sides and more.