How to Steam Brussel Sprouts

Co-authored by Amber Crain

Last Updated: December 24, 2022 Tested

Despite their bad reputation, steamed Brussels sprouts have a lot to offer in terms of flavor and color. A delicate steaming can highlight the deep, nutty flavor of these underrated vegetables. By using the correct preparation techniques and carefully monitoring to avoid overcooking, you will be able to produce your own perfectly steamed Brussels sprouts.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using a Steamer Basket

1
Wash and cut the Brussels sprouts. Rinse the Brussels sprouts with water to remove dirt and debris. Pull off any yellow or brown leaves you see, then remove the tip of each sprout and cut them in half lengthwise with a sharp knife.^{[1]
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- You may want to pat the Brussels sprouts dry before you start chopping them to prevent any accidents with the knife.
2
Boil about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water in a pot that fits your steamer. Make sure the bottom of the steamer basket isn't touching the water. That way, only steam will cook your Brussels sprouts.^{[2]
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- The basket should sit 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) over the boiling water.
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3
Place the Brussels sprouts into the basket and position the basket in the pot. Once you've put the sprouts in the basket, carefully place the basket over the boiling water. Be careful not to burn yourself on the steam! Cover the pot but leave a small gap.^{[3]
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- This small gap allows steam to escape during the cooking process and helps the sprouts retain their color.
4
Steam the Brussels sprouts for 6-8 minutes until they get tender. They're cooked to the right tenderness when you can stick a knife or fork into the stem and it slides in easily. This should take 6-8 minutes, depending on the size of your sprouts.^{[4]
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- Be sure to check your Brussels sprouts often to avoid overcooking them!
- If you're using an electric steamer, don't forget to set the timer.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using a Pot or Pan

1
Wash and cut the Brussels sprouts. Run the Brussels sprouts under lukewarm water and remove any yellow or brown leaves. Remove just the tip of each sprout and cut them in half from the top to the stem.^{[5]
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- Pat the veggies dry before you cut them to prevent your hands from slipping.
2
Bring 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) of water to boil in a large pan or pot. Add enough water to just cover the Brussels sprouts. If desired, you can add 1 tablespoon (14.8 ml) of salt to the water once it starts boiling.^{[6]
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- Waiting until the water is boiling ensures the salt properly dissolves once you add it to the water.
3
Add your Brussels sprouts to the pot and cover it with a lid. You can gently drop them into the pot or use a pair of tongs to place the Brussels sprouts in the boiling water.^{[7]
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- If desired, sprinkle a little salt over the sprouts before putting the lid on the pot.
4
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, the water should be evaporated. Check to make sure the sprouts are tender by inserting a knife or fork into one of them.^{[8]
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- The time can vary depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts and how tender you prefer them.
- If the water doesn't evaporate completely, drain Brussels sprouts before serving through a colander.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using a Microwave

1
Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts. Rinse the Brussels sprouts with lukewarm water and remove any leaves that look yellow or brown. Cut the tip off of each sprout and cut them in half lengthwise.^{[9]
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- You may want to pat the sprouts dry before you start trimming them to prevent slipperiness.
2
Place your Brussels sprouts in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a container that can be heated, like a large glass bowl. Avoid using flimsy plastic bowls for this, since those could melt in the microwave.^{[10]
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3
Add about 1 tablespoon of water to the bowl and cover it. The water should just barely cover the Brussels sprouts. Place a microwave-safe lid or plate on top of the bowl to trap in the steam, but don't snap the lid closed.
4
Cook the Brussels sprouts on HIGH for 1 minute until they're tender. After 1 minute, test how cooked the Brussels sprouts are by inserting a knife or fork into the stem. If the utensil slips in and comes out easily, your Brussels sprouts are cooked through.
- If needed, repeat at 30-second intervals until the Brussels sprouts are tender.^{[11]
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5
Drain any excess liquid from the bowl and serve the Brussels sprouts. If the water doesn't evaporate completely, you may have to drain Brussels sprouts before serving. Place a colander in your sink and pour the sprouts into it to drain the water.