As ‘everyone knows’, Brussels sprouts are not on any kids “top ten” list.
This got us thinking… Why is it that Brussels sprouts are one of the most disliked greens by children of all age? So, we decided to have a little fun, and investigate this “greeny monster”. Is there any way to get kids to eat them and are they truly as disliked as it seems? I guess it’s a good time to mention that as a kid, I didn’t mind eating Brussels sprouts, however, I will do my best to offer an unbiased opinion.
First off, Brussels sprouts are part of the cabbage family and there are quite a few different varieties. They are loaded with 20 essential vitamins and minerals, are an excellent source of fiber and protein, are low in calories, and contain hardly any fat. Sounds like a dream, no? Now, if we could just get our kids (and ourselves) to eat them, we’d be in pretty good shape!
We’ve done some serious investigative digging and we’ve discovered that, believe it or not, children’s’ dislike for Brussels sprouts may be more than just an “urban legend”. Children have many more taste buds than adults, and are therefore, much more sensitive to bitter or sour tasting foods. Interestingly, this is part of a survival instinct that protects children from toxins (which are usually bitter or sour tasting). As we age and our brains learn that not all bitter foods are dangerous, our taste sensitivity diminishes and we learn to enjoy foods which are sour or slightly bitter. To a similar effect, children also have a heightened sensitivity to smell, and Brussels sprouts can often have an unpleasant odor,especially when overcooked.
So it seems that in our quest, we have found the problem, but you know how the saying goes: “Within the problem lies the solution”. We just need to figure out a way to make Brussels sprouts taste less bitter and smell yummy. So here’s a simple recipe to turn these ‘cabbage sprouts’ into gourmet tasty delights.
Brussels Sprouts – Lime O’ Butter 
What You’ll Need (we did say it was simple):
- Brussels sprouts
- Butter
- Lime Juice
- Salt
- Pepper
Cooking Directions:
- Cut the end of each Brussels sprout off and remove the loose outer leaves; Slice thinly or run through the slicer on your food processor.
- Melt enough butter in a pan to coat the bottom of the pan over medium high heat; Add the Brussels sprouts and cook until bright green with a little bit of crispy brown on a few edges; Remove from heat; Squeeze half a lime over the cooked Brussels sprouts, or use one capful of prepared lime juice; Serve with salt and pepper (add to taste).
- The amount of butter is to taste as well, we are always trying to cut calories, so minimal amounts are better, but if you are all about taste, go for a dollop, you won’t be sorry.
Recipe Source: Food.com
We’re confident that if you give the above recipe a try and keep an open taste bud or two, your kids will fall in love with these delicious, (yet sometimes smelly) ‘’green monsters”.
As we close the file on this investigation, I find myself stuck with a serious craving for some of these delicious sprouts…. Like I tell my plate after I finish a meal, “until we eat again…”
(Part of the “Healthy Lifestyles” series)
