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Brussels Sprouts with Marjoram and Pine Nuts

This elegant vegetarian side dish elevates the humble Brussels sprout into something truly special. By simmering the sprouts in a light stock before finishing them in a silken cream sauce, they retain a perfect texture while soaking up the aromatic notes of fresh marjoram. The addition of golden, buttery pine nuts provides a sophisticated crunch that complements the earthy sweetness of the vegetables beautifully.

Ideal for a festive spread or a comforting Sunday roast, these creamy Brussels sprouts offer a refined alternative to more traditional preparations. The dish can be prepared up to four hours in advance and gently reheated, making it an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. Serve alongside roasted root vegetables or a nut roast for a complete and flavourful seasonal meal.

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Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts with Marjoram and Pine Nuts

  • 3 tablespoons butter

  • 1/2 cup pine nuts

  • 675g fresh brussels sprouts, halved, or 675g frozen brussels sprouts, thawed, halved

  • 240ml canned low-salt chicken broth

  • 2 shallots, minced

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram

  • 80ml whipping cream

How to make Brussels Sprouts with Marjoram and Pine Nuts

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add nuts and stir until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer nuts to small bowl. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in same skillet over medium heat. Add sprouts; stir 1 minute. Add broth; cover and simmer until sprouts are almost tender, about 7 minutes. Uncover and simmer until broth evaporates, about 5 minutes. Using wooden spoon, push sprouts to sides of skillet. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in centre of same skillet. Add shallots; sauté until tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in marjoram, then cream. Simmer until sprouts are coated with cream, stirring frequently, about 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover and chill. Stir over medium heat to rewarm.)

Transfer brussels sprouts to serving platter. Mix in half of pine nuts. Sprinkle with remaining pine nuts.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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