Brussel sprouts are a nutritious and delicious vegetable that pack a nutritional punch. They are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, folate, manganese, and fiber. Many people enjoy eating brussel sprouts, especially during the fall and winter months when they are in peak season. But can you buy brussel sprouts year round?
Quick answer
Yes, you can buy brussel sprouts year round at most grocery stores. While brussel sprouts are at their peak season during the fall and winter, improved farming techniques and global importation now allow them to be available throughout the year.
When is brussel sprout season?
Brussel sprouts grow best in cool weather, which is why their natural peak season is in fall and early winter. The frosts help sweeten the flavor of the brussel sprouts. Most brussel sprouts are ready for harvesting 85-115 days after planting. In the U.S., most brussel sprouts are grown in California and harvested between September and March.
Why can you buy brussel sprouts year round?
There are a few key reasons why brussel sprouts are now available year round in stores:
- Improved farming techniques – Farmers can manipulate planting schedules and use greenhouses to make brussel sprouts available beyond their natural growing season.
- Importing – Brussel sprouts are imported from other countries like Mexico and Canada during the warmer months.
- Cold storage – Freshly harvested brussel sprouts can be kept in cold storage facilities for months before being distributed to stores.
Brussel sprout seasonality by region
When brussel sprouts are in season depends partly on your region. Here is an overview of brussel sprout seasonality in different regions:
| Region | Brussel Sprout Season |
|---|---|
| California | Year round, peaks September – March |
| Northeastern U.S. | September – November |
| Midwest U.S. | July – November |
| Pacific Northwest | July – February |
| Europe | October – February |
As you can see, brussel sprout seasonality depends on your region’s climate. But improved growing methods and storage allow most stores to carry brussel sprouts year-round.
Buying and storing brussel sprouts
When buying brussel sprouts:
- Look for sprouts that are bright green and firm with tight, compact leaves.
- Avoid yellowing sprouts or sprouts with wilted leaves.
- For peak flavor, buy in-season sprouts whenever possible.
- Store unwashed sprouts in a loose or perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Out of season brussel sprouts
While you can buy brussel sprouts year round, their quality and taste may suffer when purchased out of season. Out of season brussel sprouts are often imported and have been in storage for weeks or months. This can result in sprouts that are less crisp and flavorful.
That said, modern storage techniques have improved the quality and shelf life of out of season brussel sprouts. With proper refrigeration, they can retain much of their texture and taste. Proper cooking techniques, like roasting, can also enhance the flavor of less than perfect sprouts.
How to choose the best brussel sprouts
Follow these tips for choosing the best quality brussel sprouts, whether in season or out of season:
- Size – Choose sprouts that are about 1-1.5 inches wide. Larger sprouts tend to be more bitter.
- Color – Opt for bright green sprouts with tight, compact leaves. Avoid yellowing.
- Firmness – Brussels sprouts should feel firm and dense when gently squeezed.
- Stalks – Trimmed stalks are best since the stalk continues to draw nutrition from the sprout after harvesting.
- Avoid mushiness or spots – Don’t choose bruised, mushy sprouts or those with dark blemishes.
- Buy loose – Loose brussel sprouts allow you to inspect quality. Avoid pre-packaged options.
- No odor – Brussel sprouts shouldn’t smell strongly when you purchase them.
How long do brussel sprouts last?
Fresh, unwashed brussel sprouts will last:
- Refrigerator: 1-2 weeks
- Freezer: About a year in an airtight freezer bag
To extend their shelf life, store brussel sprouts as follows:
- Refrigerate unwashed, loose sprouts in a perforated plastic bag
- Mist sprouts with water if they become dry
- Don’t wash until ready to use
- Freeze sprouts quickly at 0°F or below for long-term storage
How to use frozen brussel sprouts
Frozen brussel sprouts maintain their texture and nutrients well. To use frozen sprouts:
- No thawing needed for most cooked preparations
- To roast, thaw completely first for better caramelization
- Add frozen to soups, stir fries, casseroles
- Steam straight from frozen
- Microwave 3-5 minutes to thaw and cook
Best ways to cook brussel sprouts
These cooking methods all bring out delicious flavor in brussel sprouts:
- Roasting – Toss halved or quartered sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F until browned.
- Sautéing – Fry sprouts in oil over medium high heat until tender crisp.
- Steaming – Steam whole or halved sprouts until tender.
- Braising – Simmer sprouts in broth until very tender.
- Broiling – Toss in oil, broil 4-5 minutes until charred.
- Grilling – Toss in oil, grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
Brussel sprout recipes to try
Here are delicious brussel sprout recipes to enjoy this versatile vegetable:
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts – Toss halved sprouts in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Cheesy Baked Brussel Sprouts – Toss brussel sprouts in melted butter, then bake with Parmesan, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs.
- Brussel Sprout and Kale Salad – Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and honey for dressing. Toss with brussel sprouts, kale, cranberries, and pecans.
- Crispy Fried Brussel Sprouts – Toss in flour, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and fry in oil until crispy.
- Warm Brussel Sprout and Quinoa Salad – Sauté brussel sprouts with garlic. Toss with quinoa, dried cranberries, and a balsamic dressing.
- Creamy Brussel Sprout Soup – Sauté onions and brussel sprouts, then simmer in broth. Purée and stir in cream.
Nutrition facts
Here is the nutrition profile of 1 cup (156g) of raw brussel sprouts:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 56 |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 141% DV |
| Vitamin K | 230% DV |
| Folate | 28% DV |
| Manganese | 25% DV |
Brussel sprouts are very low in fat and calories. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also provide fiber, manganese, and antioxidants.
Health benefits
Eating brussel sprouts offers these health benefits:
- Antioxidants – Contains antioxidants like kaempferol that neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Cancer prevention – Compounds in brussel sprouts may block cancer cell growth and lower risk of colon cancer.
- Heart health – The anti-inflammatory benefits may improve cardiovascular health.
- Detoxification – Supports the body’s detox systems due to high sulfur content.
- Immunity – With 158% DV vitamin C per cup, brussel sprouts support immune function.
- Digestion – The 4 grams of dietary fiber aids digestion and gut health.
Risks and warnings
Brussel sprouts are very safe for most people. But keep these precautions in mind:
- Blood-thinning medications – Large amounts of vitamin K can interfere with blood thinners like Warfarin. Monitor intake.
- Bile obstruction – The high fiber and vitamin K levels may worsen obstruction of bile ducts.
- Thyroid issues – Brussel sprouts contain goitrogens which may affect thyroid function if consumed in excess.
- Gas and bloating – Too many brussel sprouts may cause gas, cramping, and bloating due to the high fiber content.
Growing brussel sprouts
Want to grow your own brussel sprouts? Follow these tips:
- Plant in early spring once danger of frost is over
- Space plants 24-36 inches apart in loose, fertile soil
- Soak seeds for 12 hours before planting 1/4 inch deep
- Fertilize plants every 3-4 weeks
- Water 1-1 1/2 inches per week
- Harvest sprouts when they reach 1-2 inches diameter
Grow brussel sprouts in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8. They perform best in cool 60-75°F weather.
Common questions
Are brussel sprouts better fresh or frozen?
Fresh brussel sprouts that are locally in season will generally have the best flavor and texture. However, frozen brussel sprouts retain nutrients very well and can be a high quality alternative when fresh sprouts are not in season.
Can you eat raw brussel sprouts?
Yes, you can eat brussel sprouts raw. Raw brussel sprouts have a crunchy texture and more mild, nutty taste than cooked sprouts. Shred them for slaws and salads. But keep in mind, raw brussel sprouts are harder to digest than cooked.
Do brussel sprouts go bad quickly?
Fresh brussel sprouts can last 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly in a breathable container. Signs sprouts have gone bad are yellowing leaves, mushy texture, foul odor, and mold.
Conclusion
While brussel sprouts thrive in colder weather, improved farming and storage methods allow you to enjoy this tasty and nutritious veggie all year round. For best quality, opt for in season brussel sprouts when possible and choose those with vibrant, tight leaves. Store brussel sprouts properly to extend their shelf life. Roast, sauté, grill, or steam brussel sprouts to bring out their delicious flavor.