Yes—just not in the “boiled and bitter” way they used to be served in the past.
Brussels sprouts are actually pretty popular now, especially because people learned how to cook them properly.
Why people do eat them now
- Roasting makes them sweet and crispy (this changed everything)
- They absorb flavors well (garlic, olive oil, lemon, bacon, soy sauce)
- They’re nutrient-dense (fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K)
- They fit into low-carb and “healthy eating” diets
Why they used to be unpopular
- Overcooked boiling made them smelly and bitter
- Texture became mushy, which most people dislike
How most people like them today
- Roasted with olive oil + salt until crispy
- Air-fried for crunch
- Pan-fried with garlic or bacon
- Shaved raw in salads with dressing
Bottom line
They’re not universally loved, but they’re definitely eaten a lot more now than they used to be—especially in modern home cooking and restaurants.
If you want, I can show you a version of Brussels sprouts recipe that even “haters” usually end up liking.
