Brussels sprouts

a miniature relation of green cabbage said to originate from Brussels in the thirteenth century. The smaller, firm sprouts, which are sweetest. Prepare by trimming outer leaves and if desired cut a cross in the base before boiling in a little salted water for 3-5 minutes, depending on their size. A traditional Christmas and winter vegetable served with chestnuts and tossed in nutmeg and butter. Can be shredded and deep fried or added to stir-fries, or make a soup and blended with cream and blue cheese.