Bring on the Brussels

Love them or hate them, there's one British food that cannot be overlooked at Christmas - the humble Brussels Sprout. Brussels Sprouts are as much a part of a traditional British Christmas as the crackers on the table so cannot be ignored. They so quick to prepare, just a quick wash, trim the bottom and any faded leaves followed by five minutes in boiling salted water and hey-presto, a healthy, nutritious and delicious vegetable.

Jazz up the sprouts this Christmas for those who think they are boring. Add chestnuts, bacon, or honey which make great partners to the nutty taste of a sprout or how about the heady aroma of juniper or the sweetness of apples. Here are four simple recipes using all of them that will not only liven up a Christmas dinner but are lovely to serve at any time of year.

• Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts and Cream
• Brussels Sprouts with Apples, Juniper and Honey
• Brussels Sprouts with Honey and Mustard
• Shredded Brussels with Smoked Bacon