Brussels sprouts resemble cabbage heads, but in miniature size. Both the vegetables are very similar in taste as well, but comparatively, Brussels sprouts have a milder flavor and denser texture. These are cruciferous vegetables that are rich in antioxidants, vitamin A and C, indoles and other necessary nutrients. Although you can buy them all year round, their peak growing season is from autumn to early spring. When cooked, Brussels sprouts give a nutty flavor that reminds us of classical fall cooking. But if yours are sitting in your refrigerator for so many days, and you suspect that they might have gone bad, this oneHOWTO article will tell you how to know if Brussels sprouts have gone bad.
Instructions to find out if Brussels sprouts have gone bad
If you suspect your Brussels sprouts have gone bad, follow these instructions to make sure:
- Bring some sprouts near your nose and feel their smell. If their smell is foul, or if they are smelling like mold, or if their scent is not fresh or earthy, then they are bad
- Check the outer appearance of the Brussels sprouts and see if they are slimy. If this is your case, or if they have depressions in certain areas, then they have started to rot. You should either use them instantly, or discard them
- Look at the outer leaves of the Brussels sprouts. If you see any discoloration, or if you can notice any fuzzy mold on them, then mold growth has started on them and you should discard them without thinking
- Look at the color of the Brussels sprouts. If you can see brown color on the edges of the leaves, then they have probably gone bad. It is still good for eating, and you can peel off the brown leaves and cook the remaining part. But you should consume it instantly before it continues to rot further
- Examine the stem bottom of the Brussels sprouts. If they are brown or black in color, it is a sign of mold and you should discard them right away
- Look at the sprouts and see if you can see or feel some gray powder on them. If yes, then it indicates downy mildew caused due to fungus. You should immediately discard them
- Like cabbage, if uncooked Brussels sprouts are wilty, shriveled, mushy, moldy or soggy, then they should not be consumed any more
Tips to buy fresh Brussels sprouts
When you go to the market to buy Brussels sprouts, look for the ones that are firm, compact and bright green. Here are a few tips that can help you buy the best of sprouts available out there and avoid those brussels sprouts that have gone bad in the shop:
- Buy the sprouts that are fixed to their stem, instead of buying loose ones
- Avoid sprouts that have a touch of brown or yellow in their color, that have their leaves pulling off from their center, and those that feel squishy
- If you can see some cracks or pits in the sprouts, then they are probably moldy inside
- Go for Brussels sprouts that are as small as possible. The smaller it is, the sweeter its taste. Big ones are more like cabbage in their flavor
- Make sure that the Brussels sprouts are displayed chilled. Those kept at room temperature will have their leaves turn yellow very soon. If you already see their leaves yellow, brown or wilted, then they are not fresh and not properly handled
- Smell the sprouts. If they smell like cabbage, they are old
- Avoid those that are soft and puffy
- All the sprouts that you buy should be similar in size. By doing this, you will allow all of them to cook evenly
If you're sprouts are in good condition, how about making a delicious brussels sprouts gratin?
How to store Brussels sprouts properly
Once you have brought the best of sprouts to your home, it is also necessary to store them properly. Never wash your sprouts if you intend to store them. Water will get trapped inside the sprouts, and cause them to rot more quickly. Although they can last in your refrigerator for as long as two weeks, it is best to consume them as fast as you can. The older any vegetable is, the more nutrient loss it goes through.
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