A plant variety or cultivar is often associated with a geographical area. Depending on whether they originated or were bred there and were then exported. Sometimes a nation’s economy adopted specific crops to the extent of becoming its biggest producers with naming rights.
How to Grow – Brussels Sprouts
The Netherlands mastered the art of growing tulips, while Belgium specialised in the cultivation of Brussels sprouts.
Brussels sprouts may not be as glamorous as tulips. But these little green gems are packed with flavour and nourishment, and are a fantastic addition to any winter garden.
Brussels sprouts grown in countries that have no frost lack taste, but if there is a good frost period, the plant will thrive and the Brussels sprouts will be of a superior quality. Brussels Sprouts can grow very tall, so it is a good practice to stake the stem of the plant in wind-exposed areas.
Earthing up soil at the base of the plant during its growth will secure its anchorage to the ground when bearing the sprouts. Brussels sprouts should be picked from the long stem once they reach the size of an unshelled walnut.
With their nutty, savoury flavour, Brussels sprouts are great when roasted, braised, sautéed or steamed.
Smart Tip
To store Brussels sprouts, wrap them in a clean paper towel and place in the refrigerator. You can also store them in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer. don’t wash or trim before storing.
Discover the nutty flavour of Brussels sprouts and make these recipes.
A warm salad of roasted Brussels Sprouts and juicy lamb meatballs is the perfect meal for a cold night, click here for the recipe
Pasta with garlicky stir-fried Brussels sprouts and pancetta will keep you satisfied, click here for the recipe
For a quick and easy midweek meal try these delicious tuna patties with a simple Brussels slaw, click here for the recipe
Feeling like a roast, try sheet-pan sausage and Brussels sprouts with honey mustard, click here for the recipe
