Wow, what a wonderful idea! Brussels sprouts with a creamy cheese and mustard sauce is a classic combination that truly elevates this humble vegetable. Here is a comprehensive guide to creating this delightful dish, packed with all the information you requested.
The Ultimate Brussels Sprouts in Creamy Cheese & Mustard Sauce
Introduction
Ah, Brussels sprouts! For too long, these miniature cabbages have been misunderstood, often relegated to a life of being boiled into oblivion. But when treated with a little love and respect, they transform into something truly special: nutty, sweet, and wonderfully tender. This recipe for Brussels Sprouts in a Creamy Cheese & Mustard Sauce is my secret weapon for converting sprout-skeptics into sprout-lovers .
The magic lies in the sauce. A velvety, rich base of fresh cheese (like cream cheese) provides a smooth and luxurious texture, while a generous spoonful of mustard cuts through the richness with a bright, tangy kick . This delightful contrast doesn’t just mask the sprout’s flavor; it celebrates it, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying dish. Perfect as a comforting side for a weeknight dinner or an elegant addition to a holiday feast, this recipe is simple to make and impossible to resist .
History
The story of Brussels sprouts begins not in Brussels, as their name might suggest, but likely in ancient Rome. However, their cultivation as we know it today truly flourished in 13th-century Belgium, particularly in the region near its capital, which is how they earned their modern name . They became a staple crop in the Netherlands and later spread across Europe.
For much of their history, their preparation was simple: boiled or steamed and served with butter. But as with many vegetables, the late 20th and early 21st centuries brought a culinary renaissance. Chefs and home cooks began to explore new methods like roasting and sautéing to unlock their sweet, nutty potential. Pairing them with rich, creamy sauces is a more recent evolution, drawing inspiration from classic French and Italian cuisine, where vegetables are often elevated by decadent cheeses and creamy emulsions . The addition of mustard is a nod to European traditions, where it’s a beloved condiment for its ability to enhance and brighten the flavors of hearty vegetables and meats.
Benefits
This dish isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits .
From the Brussels Sprouts:
· Packed with Vitamins: They are an excellent source of Vitamin K, crucial for bone health, and Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports your immune system.
· High in Fiber: This promotes good digestive health and helps you feel full and satisfied.
· Rich in Antioxidants: These compounds help protect your cells from damage.
From the Sauce:
· Calcium and Protein: The cream cheese and milk products contribute calcium for strong bones and protein for muscle health.
· Healthy Fats: The fats in the cheese and butter help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins (like Vitamin K) found in the sprouts.
Formation
Ever wondered how Brussels sprouts grow? They are a fascinating plant! Unlike cabbages, which form a single head at ground level, Brussels sprouts grow on a tall, thick stalk. The sprouts themselves form in the axils of the leaves, spiraling up the stem. They start forming at the bottom of the stalk and mature towards the top. This unique growth pattern is why you sometimes see them sold still attached to the stalk, a beautiful and natural display of how this vegetable forms. Each little sprout is a compact bud, patiently waiting to be harvested and turned into a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Here is everything you’ll need to create this wonderful dish. This recipe is based on the classic combination you provided, with a few additions for optimal flavor .
Ingredient Quantity Notes
Fresh Brussels Sprouts 500 g Choose firm, bright green sprouts of similar size for even cooking.
Fresh Cheese (e.g., Cream Cheese) 150-200 g Full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest, richest sauce. Plain or herb-flavored works well.
Mustard 2 tbsp Dijon is classic for its smooth, tangy heat. Whole-grain adds a lovely texture.
Vegetable Broth 150 ml Adds depth of flavor and helps create the sauce consistency.
Onion 1 medium, finely chopped Forms the savory flavor base.
Garlic 2 cloves, minced Adds aromatic sweetness.
Butter or Olive Oil 2 tbsp For sautéing the aromatics.
Honey or Maple Syrup 1 tsp (optional) A touch of sweetness beautifully balances the tangy mustard .
Salt and Black Pepper To taste Freshly ground pepper is best.
Fresh Herbs A small handful Chopped parsley or chives are perfect for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Instructions & Methods
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process. I’ve combined the best techniques from several recipes to ensure perfect sprouts and a silky sauce every time .
Method 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
1. Clean and Trim: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Trim the dry, tough end of the stem, but not too much, or the leaves will fall off.
2. Size Them Evenly: Cut larger sprouts in half lengthwise (through the stem). If any are very large, you can quarter them. This ensures they all cook at the same rate .
3. Blanch (The Gentle Boil): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the prepared sprouts and cook for 5-8 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp – easily pierced with a fork but still with a slight bite. Overcooking is the enemy of a good sprout! .
4. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the sprouts in a colander. You can set them aside while you make the sauce.
Method 2: Create the Creamy Cheese & Mustard Sauce
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant .
2. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese to the pan in chunks. Stir gently and continuously as it melts into the onions and garlic, creating a thick, creamy base .
3. Incorporate the Broth: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking or stirring constantly. This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. Continue to stir until the broth is fully incorporated and the sauce is uniform .
4. Add the Flavor: Stir in the mustard and the optional honey or maple syrup. Mix well until everything is combined.
5. Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the broth and cheese may already contain salt, so start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
Method 3: The Grand Finale – Combining and Serving
1. Combine: Add the blanched Brussels sprouts to the pan with the sauce. Gently fold them in until every sprout is beautifully coated in the creamy mixture .
2. Simmer to Perfection: Let everything simmer together over low heat for 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sprouts to heat through, absorbing a bit of that delicious sauce.
3. Serve: Transfer the sprouts to a serving bowl. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness . Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
For the Lovers…
· For Brussels Sprouts Lovers: You will adore this recipe. It takes the beloved nutty flavor of perfectly cooked sprouts and wraps it in a blanket of creamy, tangy indulgence. It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic that feels both familiar and exciting. The sauce enhances without overpowering, letting the sprout’s true character shine through .
· For the Sprout-Skeptics: This dish is your ultimate conversion tool! The rich, creamy cheese sauce works wonders in mellowing the sprout’s sometimes-bitter edge, creating a milder, more harmonious flavor . The tangy mustard adds a lively kick that distracts from any “cabbagy” notes they might fear. It’s the perfect gateway dish to a lifelong love affair with this fantastic vegetable.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the following is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrient Approximate Amount Per Serving (based on 4 servings)
Calories 280-350 kcal
Total Fat 20-25 g
Saturated Fat 12-15 g
Carbohydrates 15-18 g
Fiber 5-6 g
Sugars 6-8 g
Protein 10-12 g
Vitamin C High
Vitamin K Very High
Conclusion
This recipe for Brussels Sprouts in Creamy Cheese & Mustard Sauce is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. It’s a testament to how a few simple, high-quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The earthy sweetness of the sprouts, the velvety smoothness of the cheese, and the bright, sharp tang of the mustard create a symphony in every bite. Whether you’re a long-time sprout enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this dish promises a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious experience that will earn a permanent place in your recipe collection. So go ahead, give these little green gems the love they deserve
