What’s Cooking? {Sweet, Crunchy Brussels Sprouts}

I love to cook, but only when my mind is clear and free and open, and I really only enjoy cooking for my family. {I bake when I am avoiding something; procrastinating.}

For me, cooking is a creative outlet.

If my mind is mired down in stress or conflict or malaise, I cannot create delicious dishes.

Lately, I have been cooking. The creative juices have been flowing.

When I begin to cook a meal, I usually do not know exactly where I will end up. I do not use a recipe, but go on instinct or recollection or an idea inspired from a recipe I've read or a taste I'm craving. I keep it fresh and simple and based on tastes and textures and whatever I have on hand.

I do not dumb down my meals for my kids. If they try it, they usually love it. If they refuse to try it, I give them some fruit, but that is it.

This week, I cooked up a tantalizing, beautiful, delightful side of Brussels sprouts…and my kids loved it!

I started with a package of coarsely chopped Brussels sprouts, some garlic, salt and pepper sautéing on medium to medium low heat with some sunflower oil. I let those cook up nice and bright and caramelized for about 7 to 10 minutes. Then, I squeezed the juice of half an orange over the Brussels sprouts along with 2 spoonsful of honey and let it caramelize a bit more.

I added about half a cup each of chopped pecans and dried berries. I used the triple berry from Trader Joe's; golden raisins, cranberries and blueberries. I let the nuts and berries get nice and toasty for a few more minutes.

And voila! A sweet, citrusy, crunchy, nutritious and tasty side dish.

We paired it with a Toad-in-the Hole; toast with center cut out and egg baked in center.

Dinner was a success!

The point is to think with your senses and get creative with what you have in your kitchen. What are you cooking up at your house? Over and out…

Anna

Comments

[Mercedes Ivener]

Turkey sausage, kale, onions, assorted peppers with some chicken broth and dash of cream for a little sauce all poured over some bow tie pasta. No dumbing down for my kids either.

[Anna]

Yum! I miss your amazing cooking, Mercedes! And I especially miss having tea with you!