Brussels sprouts with blue cheese

Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese – A Culinary Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who would have thought that Brussels sprouts could become a star in the kitchen? This often underestimated ingredient transforms into a refined and flavorful dish when combined with blue cheese. Our Brussels sprouts with blue cheese recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavors, perfect for accompanying any roast or even enjoyed as a vegetarian main course.

The history of Brussels sprouts is fascinating. Although often associated with holiday meals, this vegetable has deep roots in culinary tradition, having been cultivated for centuries. Brussels sprouts are appreciated not only for their slightly bitter taste and crunchy texture but also for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients needed:

- 500 g Brussels sprouts
- 1 medium onion
- 70 ml heavy cream
- 70 g blue cheese (or Roquefort, Gorgonzola)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Brussels sprouts

Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Check for any damaged outer leaves and remove them. Rinse the sprouts well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Cut each sprout in half to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: The onion and cheese

Finely chop the onion. Choose a sweet onion to balance the slightly bitter taste of the sprouts. Crumble the blue cheese so that it melts more easily into the dish. If you want a more complex flavor, add a bit of grated Parmesan.

Step 3: Cooking the onion

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This is the perfect time to add a pinch of salt, which will help the onion release its aroma.

Step 4: Adding the Brussels sprouts

Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the pot, mixing them well with the onion. Season with salt and pepper, then let them soften for 1-2 minutes. It’s essential not to cook them too much at this stage to maintain their crunchy texture.

Step 5: Boiling

Add 200 ml of water and cover the pot with a lid. On low heat, let the sprouts simmer for 6 minutes. This process will help soften the sprouts without making them mushy. After 6 minutes, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, until the liquid has reduced.

Step 6: The delicious cream

Add the heavy cream and mix well. This will add a wonderfully creamy texture to the dish. Continue cooking for 4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 7: The cheese and finishing touches

Finally, add the blue cheese and, if desired, a bit of grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese completely melts, creating a delicious sauce. Add a tablespoon of sour cream, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Serving

Serve the Brussels sprouts with blue cheese immediately, alongside a juicy roast, such as garlic and rosemary chicken thighs baked in the oven. This combination is not only delicious but also full of contrasting flavors that complement each other perfectly. It can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish, paired with a fresh salad.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add toasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. You can also try different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular cabbage instead of Brussels sprouts?
While the recipe is specifically designed for Brussels sprouts, you can use regular cabbage, but the cooking time will be different.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the onion mixture for a spicy kick.

3. What other sides pair well with Brussels sprouts with blue cheese?
This dish is versatile and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even quinoa.

Nutritional Benefits

Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins K and C, which are essential for bone health and the immune system. They are also an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy weight.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to try this Brussels sprouts with blue cheese recipe! Whether it's for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply a weekend evening, this dish is sure to impress. Bon appétit!