When preparing Brussel Sprouts, why do you have to cut a cross on the bottom?

Answer 1

The jury is still out on this one. Modern thinking is that it is not necessary. However, I always make a very small cut across so as let the the brussel sprout cook more evenly. I cannot stand overcooked sprouts uck. I like them to be firm and crunchy. The secret is to bring the water to the boil before adding the sprouts.

A nice way to serve them is to cook them as per your taste then place them in a frying pan with finely cut streaky bacon and flaked almonds. Add a knob of real butter and a clove of garlic. Let them soak up the juices from the bacon and butter over a gentle heat. Season and serve whilst still hot .Yummy.

This makes the sprout more palatable and sweet, especially those children who trun their noses up at the humble brussel sprout.

Answer 2

Crosses In Sprouts

Answer 3

My mum always used to do that, I think it was to help with the even cooking of the veggie. I read in an article later written by a top chef, that there was absolutely no need to do it and I've never done it since. I love Brussels and they taste just as good without the cross!

Answer 4

You don't have to cut a cross in the bottom of the sprout, if they are big it might be an idea, cooking tip though, when you boil your sprouts, put half a teaspoon of sugar in the water, this takes the bitterness out of them, and makes them taste fabulous

Answer 5

You don't. This is a hangover from the old British custom of boiling vegetables to death - ie the only way to get sprouts soggy was to cut the cross in the stem. Nowadays we prefer vegetables with a bit of life - don't cut the cross. (And it saves so much time in the prep stage)

Answer 6

dont need to cut a cross on the bottom...makes the sprout all mushy inside...just cut the stock off pull off the outside leaves and pop into a pot of boiling salted water

Answer 7

It helps the heat to get into the hardest part of the sprout - thus creating more even cooking, without a hard core.

Answer 8

beacuse it's the hardest part of the sprout and it helps it to cook at the same speed as the rest of the sprout. My Dad is a chef and I asked him this once. I never do it though and they always turn out fine.

Answer 9

You don't have to. It was a trend that became fashionable in the mid 90's.Not necessary with the little sprouts you buy today

Answer 10

you can make a cross or other signs as you like -it helps, because it is the hard part of the brussel. voila from a connaisseur.
ps. i don't make a cross -- i just pick with a sharp knife. hope it helps.