How to Shred Brussels Sprouts

🔪How to Clean and Prep Brussels Sprouts

Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves and discard them. Rinse the sprouts under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.

If the sprouts are very large, you may also want to slice them in half lengthwise to make them more evenly sized and easier to handle.

How to Shred Brussels Sprouts in a Food Processor

The easiest and quickest way to shred Brussels sprouts is in a food processor. It is also my favorite and what I use when making my favorite shaved brussels sprout salad.

• Install the slicing attachment to your food processor. It should be like a big silver disc with a mandolin blade. Place it on the top cover and turn until it clicks.
• Trim the very end of the root end of the bulb where the sprout meets the stalk. Start adding the sprouts to the chute and turn the processor on. Continue to add the sprouts until they are all shredded.
• If your sprouts are large they might not fit into the feed tube. In this case, cut them in half before adding them.
• Dump the shredded pieces into a large bowl and use your hands to separate the pieces.

Make sure not to overprocess, or you will end up with mushy shaved sprouts!

How to Shred Brussels Sprouts with a Knife

• Trim the stems off the bottom of each sprout and cut them in half lengthwise.
• Place the trimmed and halved sprouts cut side down on your cutting board.
• Then firmly hold the root end with your fingertips tucked under. Use a sharp chef's knife (i.e. not serrated) to make very thin slices through each of the Brussels sprouts.
• Continue slicing until all of the sprouts are shredded into thin strips. Use your hands to separate the layers of the sprout.

How to Shred Brussels Sprouts with a Mandolin

Do not trim the ends off of the sprouts, you can use the root end as a handle.

• Holding the whole sprouts onto the base of your mandolin. Move back and forth to slice the sprout, and discard the root end.
• Be cautious when working with this kitchen tool, as it can be quite sharp! I prefer to use the provided safety piece or safety glove when using a mandolin.

This is the mandolin I use. It is inexpensive and comes with a grating attachment and julienne attachment (2 sizes!) plus it makes vegetable noodles. Plus it is less than $30!

💬Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to shave brussels sprouts?

Shaving Brussels sprouts is a technique that requires slicing the sprouts into thin strips. Shaving and shredding brussels sprouts are the same thing. This can be accomplished with a knife, food processor, or mandolin slicer.

Can you shred brussels sprouts with a box grater?

No, I don't recommend using a box grater to shred brussels sprouts, the pieces will be too thin and small. They will disintegrate when cooked and won't have that classic crunch if eaten raw.

Can you shred Brussels sprouts in a blender?

No, it’s not recommended to shred Brussels sprouts in a blender, as it will turn them into a mushy consistency. Instead, using a knife, food processor, or mandolin slicer for the most even and thin slices is best.

Can I eat brussels sprouts raw?

Yes, you can eat raw Brussels sprouts! They have a mild flavor that pairs well with other vegetables, dressings, and vinaigrettes.

🌡️How to Select and Store Brussels Sprouts

It is best to purchase them during peak season from October through March. Brussels sprouts may still be on the stalk or removed and sold in bulk or in bags.

When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for bright green, tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have blemishes on the leaves.

Whole brussels sprouts should be stored in the crisper drawer of your fridge. They should be good for 5 to 7 days provided you do not wash them before storing them.

After cutting, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will help keep them fresh and flavorful for your recipes.