Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts are a member of the crucifer family, along with broccoli and the cabbages.  Brussel sprouts are like little cabbages.  They are actually flowers of a sort.  They grow with numbers of them on a long stalk, so they can be quite entertaining to grow in your garden.

Their nutritional value is very high.  The Nutritional Data website shows them to be very filling for a low number of calories and very nutrient dense.  They contain good amounts of B-vitamins, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Copper, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Potassium and Manganese.

They have Isothiocyanates, which are sulfur-containing compounds that are responsible for the aroma they have when cooking, but more importantly help the liver heal.  These compounds stimulate enzyme production in the liver that facilitates detoxification.  Research shows they may also play a significant role in preventing cancer, especially premenopausal breast cancer.

They can be steamed or roasted in the oven.  Enjoy.