Remove the outer leaves from the sprouts and cut a cross in the stem about ⅛" (3mm) deep to help them cook evenly. Boil the Brussels sprouts in a large pan of salted water until they are fork tender (about 8 minutes).
Change the water after 8 minutes (see Hot Tip below) then finish cooking for a further 6-8 minutes. Strain the sprouts and season with salt and plenty of freshly ground pepper to serve.