Brussels sprouts with peas

Delicious Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Peas and Ham

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Brussels sprouts, with their unmistakable appearance of mini green cabbages, have gained popularity in recent decades. These small cruciferous vegetables are not only tasty but also rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. In this recipe, Brussels sprouts perfectly combine with peas and ham, creating a savory dish ideal for quick lunches or colorful dinners.

Get ready to explore the delicious flavors and textures of this simple yet elegant dish! Here’s how to prepare it, step by step.

Ingredients:
- 250 g Brussels sprouts (about 1/2 container), cleaned and halved
- 1/2 can of peas (about 150 g), drained
- 100 g ham, sliced
- 1/2 white onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Maggi cube (or another preferred seasoning)
- Freshly ground black pepper or chili flakes, to taste
- Water, enough to cover the ingredients

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Remove the dry outer leaves and wash them well under running water. Cut them in half to speed up cooking and allow the flavors to penetrate better.

2. Onion and ham: In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent, but do not let it brown. Then, add the strips of ham and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until they become slightly crispy.

3. Adding the sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the onion and ham mixture. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.

4. Cooking the ingredients: Pour water into the pot, enough to cover the ingredients. Add the Maggi cube and stir well. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step is essential as the steam helps to cook the Brussels sprouts evenly.

5. Adding the peas: After 10 minutes, add the drained peas and stir. Season with pepper and, if you want a bit of heat, add chili flakes. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sprouts are tender but still crisp.

6. Serving: Once all the ingredients are cooked, turn off the heat and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, directly from the pot, to preserve the fresh aroma and appetizing appearance.

Practical tips:
- Choosing ingredients: Select Brussels sprouts that are firm and green. Avoid vegetables with brown spots or wilted leaves.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a meatless option, you can replace the ham with tofu or sautéed mushrooms to add a similar texture.
- Delicious combinations: This dish pairs perfectly with rice or quinoa. Also, a arugula salad with lemon dressing would complement the meal excellently.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe has about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of ham. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, while peas provide a generous amount of protein and fiber, making this dish a healthy and nutritious option.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the dish be frozen? While it is recommended to consume the dish fresh, you can freeze it in portions. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.
- Can it be cooked differently? Sure! You can try sautéing the ingredients in the oven for a crispy texture. Baking at 180°C for 20-25 minutes is an excellent option.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to try this delicious Brussels sprouts recipe with peas and ham! It is an excellent choice for any meal and will bring a splash of color and flavor to your diet. Cooking is an art, and each recipe represents an opportunity to experiment and create delicious memories!