Brussels sprouts are a plant with an erect stem that can reach a height of 80 cm, while the green sprouts are about the size of a walnut. This vegetable is grown mainly in Belgium, France and England and its season runs from September to March.

If the sprouts are very fresh and firm, just discard the first outer leaves before washing them, then incise a cross on their small core, and boil them in an uncovered pot for about 25 minutes; after this time drain them immediately. On the other hand, if they have to undergo a second cooking (e.g in a pan, in the oven, stewed), just blanch them in boiling water for 15 minutes.