Brussels sprouts are in season as they are harvested late into the fall or early winter and make a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday meals. Steaming vegetables is one of the quickest and healthier ways to cook them. Today I have prepared this dish in my electric pressure cooker, Instant Pot DUO60 6 QT. Check out the pot-in-pot cooking guide for Instant Pot.
What are Brussels Sprouts?
Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) are edible buds or small leafy heads (typically 2.5-4 cm diameter) that grow on long, thick stalks and resemble miniature cabbages. They are part of the cruciferous vegetable family, like kale, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and bok choy. They can be cooked in the pressure cooker, microwave, slow cooker, air fryer, roasted, steamed, sauteed, braised, and grilled. Brussels has a sweet, nutty, smoky flavor when cooked.
Why steam Brussels Sprouts in an Instant Pot?
Quick, It cooks in just 10 minutes. Tender & flavorful. can be served as a healthy side dish or with other mains. You can cook them fresh or frozen. Steamed brussels sprouts are made without any oil, making them low in calories, fat, and carbs.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts: Choose that are bright green and fairly firm. You can use fresh or frozen brussels sprouts using this Instant Pot method. If using frozen, leave them whole. Oil: toss the sprouts in olive oil or any cooking oil. Butter is also a great option; it adds the right richness. Garlic: minced garlic is a great way to add flavor. Salt & pepper: To season the sprouts. Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a tangy flavor to the dish. Water: It is necessary to bring the cooker to pressure for cooking the Brussel sprouts.
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts in Instant Pot
Prepare the fresh Brussels sprouts by trimming their hard stems and cutting each sprout into half using a sharp knife. Pour 1 cup of water into the instant pot insert. Place the Brussel sprouts on the steamer basket. Close the lid on the Instant Pot, and turn the pressure valve to the SEALING position. Pressure cook on High for 1 minute (Texture: mildly crisp), – 2 minutes (Texture: soft & tender), then Quick Release. Then add olive oil, minced garlic, and saute for a few seconds. Next, add steamed Brussels sprouts, salt, pepper, lime juice and gently toss for a minute. Top with a little Parmesan if you desire, and enjoy! Serve Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts with your favorite main dish.
Can I use Frozen Brussel Sprouts in the Instant Pot?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen Brussels sprouts are already soft, so Pressure Cook on High for 0 minutes followed by Quick Release, and season the sprouts at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Once seasoned, steamed brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Serve it as a healthy side dish for an everyday meal and holidays with a bowl of soup or pasta. You can also use them for a salad.
Storage + Reheating
Store: Brussels sprouts taste best when served immediately after cooking. However, leftovers will last for up to 3-4 days when you store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Reheat: You can reheat it on the stovetop, air fryer, or microwave until warm.
Tips
Choose fresh & bright green heads that are similar in size. Trim and halve the brussels sprouts so that they cook evenly and perfectly. If you are not vegan, toss Brussels sprouts with butter, making them more flavorful.
Seasoning Variations
We love these brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lime juice, here are other ways to add flavor to the sprouts.
Toss with butter (or olive oil), garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese Toss with a splash of balsamic vinegar glaze and maple syrup Squeeze some fresh lemon juice and zest Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired Saute with some onion, ginger, and garlic to make Asian-style stir fry.
More Brussels Sprouts Recipes
Brussels Sprouts Sabzi Air Fryer Roasted Brussels Sprouts Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry with Fresh Coconut
More Instant Pot Basic Series
How to Boil Potatoes in Instant Pot Instant Pot Green Beans Cook Chickpeas (Soak & No-Soak Method) Instant Pot Basmati Rice One Minute Quinoa How to Cook Beets How to Cook Sweet Potatoes
Check out the complete guide on Instant Pot Steamed Vegetables from my blog. ★ Like this recipe? FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Youtube for more quick & easy recipes.
