January 31st marks a special day for all veggie and health enthusiasts, it’s Eat Brussels Sprouts Day. Celebrated every year, the day is dedicated to embracing and enjoying the healthful bounty of Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts, hailing from the family of cruciferous vegetables, pack a punch with essential vitamins including A, C, K, and B-6, not to mention their impressive fiber content.
Whether you’re already a fan or still on the fence about them, Eat Brussels Sprouts Day presents the perfect opportunity for you to discover and experiment with delectable ways to add these diminutive versions of cabbages into your diet.
History of Eat Brussel Sprouts Day
Brussels sprouts, named after the Belgium city Brussels, is a member of the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, kale, and collard greens. They are believed to have been cultivated in the 16th century in Belgium, hence their name. However, some reports suggest that they were grown as far back as Ancient Rome.
In the 1800s, Brussels sprouts were introduced to the United States by French settlers in Louisiana. In the early 20th century, the majority of the global production of Brussels sprouts moved to California in the United States, due to its favorable weather conditions.
Brussels sprouts have notorious reputation for their strong, bitter flavor, which can cause divisive opinions. However, cooking methods have evolved over the years. People have discovered that when cooked properly, Brussels sprouts can have a sweet, almost nutty flavor, leading to a resurgence in their popularity.
Investigation into the health benefits of Brussels sprouts has led to an increased appreciation for the vegetable in the 21st century. Full of nutrients, packed with fiber, and carrying anti-cancer properties, Brussels sprouts have gained a place in the modern day healthy diet.
Eat Brussel Sprouts Day Timeline
Cultivation of Brussels Sprouts
The Brussels sprouts were likely first cultivated in Ancient Rome and may have been brought to Belgium during the Roman Empire.
First Written Record
First written record of Brussel sprouts appeared in Belgium, likely lending to their name.
Introduction to Britain
Brussels sprouts were introduced to the United Kingdom and Scotland, where they became a common part of the traditional Christmas dinner.
Arrival in U.S.
French settlers brought them to Louisiana in the 18th century.
Modern Uses
Brussels sprouts are now grown throughout Europe and the United States and are a staple part of many diets.
Ideas to Celebrate Eat Brussel Sprouts Day
Cook Brussel Sprouts
Kick off the day by preparing some Brussel sprouts. You have the choice to either roast, steam, or saute them. You can give a new recipe a shot or stick with the one you love.
Healthy Lunch at Work
Take a lunch filled with Brussel sprouts to your workplace. You might even catch your coworkers off guard if you bring some to share.
Brussel Sprouts Cooking Class
Take the lead in a cooking class where you instruct others on how to whip up your top Brussel Sprouts dish. This could be a fun and enlightening way to mark the day.
Share It On Social Media
Put up images of your Brussels sprout-laden meals on your social handles. Don't forget to inform others about the health benefits of this vegetable.
Picnic in the Park
Plan a picnic in a park nearby, with an array of dishes showcasing Brussel sprouts. You can call your buddies over and share some with people around you.
Documentary Night
Hold a get-together at your place and play a film on the history and advantages of Brussel sprouts. Pair the night with some tasty Brussel sprouts-inspired munchies.
6 Interesting Facts About Brussel Sprouts
High Nutrient Contents
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrition. They're rich in dietary fiber and vitamins C and K, and also provide a commendable amount of Omega-3 fatty acids.
World Record Holder
The Guinness World Record for the most Brussels sprouts eaten in 60 seconds is 33, a feat accomplished by Wayne Sherlock, a 38-year-old trucker from Kent, UK.
They Taste Sweeter After Frost
After a frost event, Brussels sprouts actually get a boost in sweetness once they're harvested.
Time to Mature
Growing Brussels sprouts to maturity typically requires a timeframe of roughly 26 to 31 weeks.
Boiling Reduces Nutritional Value
Brussels sprouts lose up to 58% of their glucosinolate content when boiled, adversely impacting their cancer-fighting potential.
Belongs to the Mustard Family
Brussels sprouts are counted among the cruciferous vegetables, sharing the group with other popular eatables like broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and mustard greens.
Eat Brussel Sprouts Day FAQs
Next Eat Brussel Sprouts Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | January 31st | Tuesday |
| 2024 | January 31st | Wednesday |
| 2025 | January 31st | Friday |
| 2026 | January 31st | Saturday |
| 2027 | January 31st | Sunday |
| What is the pattern? | Every January 31st | |
Eat Brussel Sprouts Day Word Search
- Brussels
- Sprouts
- Vegetables
- Healthy
- Nutritious
- Recipe