MMMMM----- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.06 Title: Braised Brussels Sprouts Categories: Vegetables Yield: 2 Servings Water; (1/4") 1/2 ts Table salt 1 lb Brussels sprouts 1/2 tb Butter Fresh ground black pepper If you bought the Brussels sprouts on the stalk, simply cut them off the stalk. When I buy them as individual heads, I like to slice off the very base of the Brussels sprouts because the base has often lost moisture in the store and may be tougher and more fibrous. Peel off any loose or yellow leaves. Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or small clinging insects. Some cookbooks suggest soaking them for 15 minutes in lemon or vinegar water to clean them of potential insects. Select a pot or pan that can hold all the sprouts in one layer. Put just enough water in the pot to create a depth of about 1/4". Cover and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is hot, add 1/2 ts table salt to the water. When the water is boiling, add the sprouts to the pan. Make sure they form only one layer on the bottom and none of the heads are sitting on top of the other heads. Cover and reduce to low heat to maintain a simmer. After 7 to 8 minutes, the Brussels sprouts should be tender. The base of the head should allow you to stick a knife in with a little gentle pressure. If you overcook the sprouts, it will produce an unpalatable sulfurous smell. Cooked just right, the Brussels sprouts should be sweet and nutty with a slight hint of bitterness (but not even close to the bitterness of many other vegetables such as bok choy). Remove from the water and toss in butter and season with fresh ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, warm, or cold--they'll be delicious at any temperature. Recipe FROM: cookingforengineers.com MMMMM