Yes—more people than you’d think, but they’re definitely a “love them or hate them” vegetable.
Brussels sprouts used to have a bad reputation because they were often overboiled, which made them bitter and mushy. That’s probably where a lot of the dislike comes from.
But the way they’re cooked today is very different:
- Roasted with olive oil → becomes crispy and slightly sweet
- Pan-fried with garlic or bacon → rich and savory
- Air-fried → crunchy outside, soft inside
- Tossed with balsamic glaze → balances bitterness
When prepared properly, many people who “hated them as kids” actually end up liking them.
Culturally, they’re especially common in:
- UK and European meals
- Holiday dinners (like Christmas and Thanksgiving sides)
- Modern healthy eating diets
So yes, people do eat them—but they’re more of a “prepared well matters a lot” vegetable than something most people enjoy plain.
If you want, I can give you a recipe that converts Brussels-sprout haters into fans.
