How to Shave Brussel Sprouts in Food Processor?

Shaving Brussels sprouts has gained popularity in recent years, especially in gourmet kitchens and healthy eateries. These tiny, nutrient-packed vegetables are versatile and can enhance a variety of dishes. Learning how to shave Brussels sprouts in a food processor streamlines the process, providing you with perfectly thin, even slices in a fraction of the time it would take to do it by hand. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about this handy kitchen skill, from the benefits of shaving Brussels sprouts to practical tips and recipe ideas.

Benefits of Shaving Brussels Sprouts

Shaving Brussels sprouts offers several advantages that make it worth learning this technique, especially when using a food processor.

Enhanced Texture

One of the primary benefits of shaving Brussels sprouts is the texture. When sliced thinly, these mini cabbages become tender quicker, allowing them to absorb flavors better when cooked. This makes them a delightful addition to salads or cooked dishes.

Quick Cooking Time

Shaved Brussels sprouts have a much shorter cooking time compared to whole or quartered sprouts. This attribute makes them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or lunches where you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The thinly shaved texture allows them to sauté or roast quickly while still retaining a bit of crunch.

Nutritional Benefits

Brussels sprouts are incredibly nutritious. They are high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and various phytonutrients. Shaving them enhances their palatability, making it easier to incorporate them into a range of dishes. Eating a variety of vegetables can help with overall health, and shaved Brussels sprouts are a tasty way to do this.

Versatility in Cooking

Shaved Brussels sprouts can be used in many different dishes. They shine not only in salads but also work excellently in sautés, stir-fries, or even as a pizza topping. Moreover, they can be added to pasta dishes for a boost of nutrients without compromising flavor.

Equipment Needed

While a sharp knife can do the trick, when you want to shave Brussels sprouts in a food processor, a few specific pieces of equipment will make the process smoother.

Food Processor

A food processor is the most essential piece of equipment for this task. The machine should have a slicing disc that can handle the delicate structure of Brussels sprouts.

Cutting Board and Knife

You should have a cutting board and a sharp knife handy. You may need to trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves before placing them in the food processor.

Storage Containers

If you don’t use all the shaved Brussels sprouts in one go, you’ll want a nice storage container, preferably airtight. They can last a few days in the refrigerator, which allows you to prep ahead for meals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shaving Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare Your Brussels Sprouts

Before you start using the food processor, you’ll need to prepare your Brussels sprouts by taking the following steps:

1. Selection: Choose fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for vibrant green color and firm, compact heads.
2. Cleaning: Rinse your Brussels sprouts under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
3. Trimming: Use a sharp knife to trim the stem end of each Brussels sprout. If any leaves are discolored or wilted, remove them as well.

Step 2: Set Up Your Food Processor

Once your Brussels sprouts are prepped, set up your food processor.

1. Assemble the Slicing Disk: Ensure that the slicing disk is properly attached to the food processor. This disk is crucial for achieving even shavings.
2. Secure the Lid: Make sure the lid is secure—this step is essential for safety.

Step 3: Shaving Process

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to get down to business.

1. Feed Sprouts: Place the Brussels sprouts one at a time in the feeding chute of the processor. You may be able to fit two or three depending on the size of the chute.
2. Power On: Turn the food processor on. The machine will start slicing the Brussels sprouts as you feed them in.
3. Monitor Thickness: If your food processor has settings for thickness, adjust accordingly. You want the slices to be thin but not so thin that they fall apart.

Step 4: Collect and Store

Once the Brussels sprouts are uniformly shaved, you can proceed to collect them.

1. Transfer to Bowl: Use a spatula to scrape the shaved Brussels sprouts into a clean mixing bowl.
2. Storage: If you’re not using them immediately, transfer the sprouts into an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Tips for Shaving Brussels Sprouts

Although the process is straightforward, some tips can enhance your efficiency and the final product.

Always Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh Brussels sprouts will significantly impact the consistency and flavor of your final dish. Old or wilted Brussels sprouts might not yield the same texture.

Experiment with Seasoning

When you are done shaving, experiment with different seasonings. A little salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar can add depth to the flavor.

Try Different Cooking Techniques

While sautéing is common, consider trying other cooking methods. Roasting can give the sprouts a crispy texture while grilling can infuse them with a smoky flavor.

Batch Shaving for Meal Prep

If you know you’ll be using shaved Brussels sprouts regularly, consider making a larger batch. You can easily portion them out, helping with meal prep and saving time during busy weeks.

Storing Shaved Brussels Sprouts

When you shave Brussels sprouts in a food processor, you might not use all of them at once. Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh.

Refrigeration

Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and store in the fridge. They should remain fresh for several days. Air exposure can lead to quicker spoilage, so ensure your container is sealed.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze shaved Brussels sprouts. However, it’s essential to blanch them first to maintain flavor and texture.

1. Boil water in a pot and add the Brussels sprouts for approximately 2-3 minutes.
2. Ice bath the sprouts to stop the cooking process.
3. Drain and lay on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer bag.

Reviving Stale Sprouts

If your refrigerated Brussels sprouts begin to lose their freshness, consider reviving them by soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This can help restore some crispness.

  Delicious Recipes Using Shaved Brussels Sprouts

Once you’ve mastered how to shave Brussels sprouts in a food processor, the sky’s the limit in terms of what you can create. Here are a few recipes to get you started.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

This light, crisp salad pairs well with many mains.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/8 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, almonds, Parmesan, and cranberries.
2. In a small jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss until well combined. Serve immediately.

Sautéed Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Garlic

This dish is quick, simple, and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Add the shaved Brussels sprouts and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Roasted Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

A delicious side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the shaved Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Remove from oven and serve hot.

Conclusion

Learning how to shave Brussels sprouts in a food processor not only saves time but also enhances the overall cooking experience. The texture, cooking time, and flavor absorption are all benefits that can elevate your dishes. Whether you’re preparing salads, sides, or main courses, shaved Brussels sprouts can add a delightful crunch and rich flavor. Keeping the insights and techniques discussed in this article in mind will ensure that your meals enriched with Brussels sprouts are both enjoyable and nutritious. Happy cooking!