Colours of amethyst

The Brussels sprout is a traditional Christmas vegetable, but less familiar are the purple and red varieties. Most cultivars are a hybrid between the common green sprout and red cabbage. The sprouts vary in colour from a deep purple to a reddish mauve. They have a crisp texture and nutty flavour, usually sweeter than the standard sprout. Both, however, are rich in minerals, high in fibre and a good source of vitamin K and folic acid. The more unusual varieties are often a source of surprise and pleasure when presented at the table.