Out of brussels sprouts?

Brussels Sprouts substitutes

Brussels Sprouts is Small, compact cruciferous vegetables with a slightly bitter, nutty flavor, commonly roasted or sautéed as a side dish.

Use this

Cabbage

Use the same amount as the brussels sprouts you are replacing

Close matchBest for roasting

The best substitutes for Brussels sprouts are cabbage, broccoli, or kale, depending on the cooking method.

At a glance

Every brussels sprouts substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Brussels Sprouts substitutes compared
#	Substitute	Instead of brussels sprouts, use	Result
1	Cabbage	Same amount	Close match
2	Broccoli	Same amount	Close match
3	Kale	Same amount	Taste and texture differ
4	Baby Cabbage	Same amount	Close match
5	Turnips	Same amount	Different taste
6	Radishes	Same amount	Different taste

Every brussels sprouts substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

1. Cabbage
Close match
Use the same amount
Similar cruciferous vegetable that can be cut into wedges and cooked similarly to Brussels sprouts.
What changes
Best for
roasting, sautéing, braising, soups
Cut into 1-2 inch wedges to mimic Brussels sprouts size. Green cabbage works best for roasting.
2. Broccoli
Close match
Use the same amount
Close relative with similar texture and slightly bitter flavor.
What changes
Cut into small florets for best results.
Best for
roasting, steaming, sautéing, stir-fries
Cut into bite-sized pieces. Broccoli stems can also be used and have a similar texture.
3. Kale
Taste and texture differ
Use the same amount
Leafy green with similar bitter notes.
What changes
Works well when massaged or cooked until tender.
Best for
sautéing, roasting, soups, salads
Remove tough stems and tear into bite-sized pieces. Massage with oil and salt for salads.
4. Baby Cabbage
Close match
Use the same amount
Small cabbage heads that closely resemble Brussels sprouts in size and flavor.
What changes
Best for
roasting, braising, sautéing, steaming
Cut in half or quarters depending on size. Cook similarly to Brussels sprouts.
5. Turnips
Different taste
Use the same amount
Root vegetable that can be cut into small pieces and roasted or sautéed like Brussels sprouts.
What changes
Best for
roasting, sautéing, braising, soups
Peel and cut into 1-inch pieces. Slightly sweeter than Brussels sprouts but similar texture when cooked.
6. Radishes
Different taste
Use the same amount
Peppery root vegetable that becomes mild and sweet when roasted, similar to Brussels sprouts.
What changes
Best for
roasting, sautéing, pickling
Cut larger radishes in half. The peppery flavor mellows significantly when cooked.

Tips for substituting brussels sprouts

Cut Brussels sprouts in half for faster, more even cooking and better caramelization
Don't overcook Brussels sprouts - they should be tender but still have some bite
For roasting, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes
Sauté Brussels sprouts in a hot pan with oil for 5-7 minutes until golden brown
Remove any loose or yellow outer leaves before cooking
Brussels sprouts pair well with bacon, garlic, lemon, and balsamic vinegar
Store Brussels sprouts in the refrigerator for up to a week, unwashed

Questions about brussels sprouts substitutes

Why are my Brussels sprouts bitter?

Brussels sprouts can be bitter if overcooked or if they're old. Cook them just until tender and choose fresh, firm sprouts. Roasting or sautéing helps reduce bitterness.

Can I eat Brussels sprouts raw?

Yes, Brussels sprouts can be eaten raw! Shred them thinly for salads or slaws. Raw Brussels sprouts have a crisp texture and slightly bitter, cabbage-like flavor.

How do I know when Brussels sprouts are done cooking?

Brussels sprouts are done when they're tender but still have some bite - they should not be mushy. A knife should easily pierce them, and they should be golden brown when roasted.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts work as a substitute for fresh. They're already blanched, so reduce cooking time by 5-10 minutes. They may be slightly softer than fresh sprouts.

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At a glance

Every brussels sprouts substitute

1. Cabbage

2. Broccoli

3. Kale

4. Baby Cabbage

5. Turnips

6. Radishes