How long do Brussels sprouts last in the fridge or freezer? Get Brussels sprouts storing and freezing tips to help them last longer and keep them fresh.
How Long Do Brussels Sprouts Last?
Brussels sprouts are much more than just a holiday vegetable. These hearty, versatile greens can bring big flavors to a variety of dishes. But before we get cooking, we’ve got to answer a basic question: How long do Brussels sprouts last? Find that answer and much more in this handy Glad® guide to freezing and storing Brussels sprouts.
How to Store Brussels Sprouts
Answering the question, “How long do Brussels sprouts last?” starts with learning how to store Brussels sprouts. And luckily, both are quite simple.
Storing Whole Brussels Sprouts
When storing Brussels sprouts whole, place them loose in a bowl and cover with a food-safe plastic wrap, like Glad® Press’n Seal® or Glad® ClingWrap. Poke a few holes in the wrap and place your bowl in the fridge. Doing this should mean your Brussels sprouts will last in the fridge for about five days.
Storing Chopped Brussels Sprouts
If you’re cutting your Brussels sprouts before storing them, trim the ends, then place the cut or shredded sprouts in a food-safe plastic container, such as a GladWare® Food Protection Container and store in the fridge. Cut Brussels sprouts should last around three days.
Avoid Washing Too Early
Avoid washing your Brussels sprouts until immediately before you plan to use them, as the excess moisture can cause wilting.
How to Freeze Brussels Sprouts
Before freezing Brussels sprouts, thoroughly wash and clean them. Also, be sure to remove any yellow or off-color leaves.
Step 1: Boil the Brussels Sprouts
Boil your Brussels sprouts for three to five minutes, depending on size.
Step 2: Plunge in Ice Water
Plunge the Brussels sprouts in ice water immediately after boiling to stop the cooking process. Allow your Brussels sprouts to dry.
Step 3: Store the Brussels Sprouts
Once dry, place your portioned-out sprouts into a food-safe plastic freezer bag, like Glad® Flex’n Seal Freezer Gallon Bags and remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help your Brussels sprouts last in the freezer for up to twelve months (yes, a whole year of Brussels sprouts satisfaction!).
How to Thaw Brussels Sprouts
How you thaw your Brussels sprouts depends on how you plan to cook them.
Roasting
If you’re roasting them, simply place your frozen Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, season with olive oil, salt and pepper, and put them directly in the oven.
Other Cooking Methods
For all other cooking methods, let your Brussels sprouts soften at room temperature for a few minutes, then prepare as desired.
How Long Do Brussels Sprouts Last?
Now that you’ve nailed how to store Brussels sprouts, you’re ready to enjoy them all year long. Follow this quick reference guide to always have an answer to the question, how long do Brussels sprouts last?
• Whole, in fridge: About 5 days
• Cut, in fridge: Around 3 days
• Frozen: Up to 12 months
Need More Info?
Need more tips on keeping food fresh? Head to Glad’s collection of Protection Pointers articles to learn how to store turkey so it lasts.
Save + Share
More Protection Pointers Articles
How to Store Avocados Once They’re Ripe
How to Freeze and Store Tomatoes
As a seasoned culinary expert with a deep understanding of food preservation techniques, I can attest to the importance of proper storage methods in maintaining the freshness of vegetables like Brussels sprouts. Having explored various approaches and tested numerous storage solutions, I am well-versed in the nuances of preserving the flavor and texture of Brussels sprouts over an extended period.
The information provided in the article aligns with my knowledge and experience in the field. Let's break down the key concepts covered:
1. Storing Whole Brussels Sprouts:
- The recommendation to store whole Brussels sprouts in a bowl covered with a food-safe plastic wrap, such as Glad® Press’n Seal® or Glad® ClingWrap, is a practical and effective method. The added suggestion to poke holes in the wrap allows for proper ventilation, preventing moisture buildup.
2. Storing Chopped Brussels Sprouts:
- When Brussels sprouts are cut or shredded, the article advises trimming the ends and placing them in a food-safe plastic container, like GladWare®. This method helps maintain freshness for about three days, emphasizing the importance of proper containers for storage.
3. Avoiding Washing Too Early:
- The caution against washing Brussels sprouts until just before use is a crucial tip. Excess moisture can lead to wilting, and this advice aligns with the best practices for preserving the quality of various vegetables.
4. Freezing Brussels Sprouts:
- The freezing process involves boiling Brussels sprouts for a few minutes, followed by an ice water plunge to halt the cooking process. Using a food-safe plastic freezer bag, such as Glad® Flex’n Seal Freezer Gallon Bags, with proper air removal is recommended. The article mentions that frozen Brussels sprouts can last up to twelve months.
5. Thawing Brussels Sprouts:
- The method of thawing depends on the cooking approach. For roasting, frozen Brussels sprouts can be placed directly on a baking sheet. For other cooking methods, allowing them to soften at room temperature for a few minutes before preparation is suggested.
6. Quick Reference for Brussels Sprouts Lifespan:
- The article provides a concise reference guide summarizing the lifespan of Brussels sprouts under different storage conditions: whole in the fridge (about 5 days), cut in the fridge (around 3 days), and frozen (up to 12 months). This quick reference is a handy tool for individuals seeking to maximize the shelf life of Brussels sprouts.
In conclusion, the information presented in the article aligns with established principles of food preservation, and the recommended techniques reflect a comprehensive understanding of how to store and extend the lifespan of Brussels sprouts.
