Sprouting seeds isn’t a new phenomenon – the trend first began in the 1970s – but it’s one worth taking a look at. Whether you’re interested in sprouting seeds for their health benefits, or for a fun project for you or the kids, growing your own sprouts is a healthy and delicious venture.
What Are the Benefits of Sprouted Seeds?
Sprouts are one of the healthiest food choices. They contain many disease-preventing phytochemicals. In fact, the National Institutes of Health, American Cancer Society, and Johns Hopkins University, among others, have reinforced the benefits of sprouts with studies on various sprout varieties for their nutritional properties.
Many sprout varieties are rich in antioxidants, protein, vitamin D, vitamin C and isoflavones.
In addition, sprouts grown at home are fresher and much less expensive than store bought sprouts.
Is Special Equipment Required to Sprout Seeds at Home?
To sprout seeds, a few basic pieces of kitchen equipment are necessary. First, you will need a jar or jars to sprout the seeds in. You can purchase a commercial seed sprouting containers or kits at health food or grocery stores, or you can make your own, A Mason jar or even a clean mayonnaise or spaghetti jar can be used to sprout seeds. Simply add the seeds and water to the jar, then cover with a metal screen or a piece of cheese cloth and secure with a rubber band.
What Kind of Seeds Will Sprout?
Almost any kind of seed can be sprouted and eaten. Some of the most common seeds to sprout are alfalfa, mung beans, radish, broccoli, sunflower and lentil. Organic, non-genetically modified seeds should be used.
How Do You Sprout Seeds?
To sprout the seeds, you must first soak them. To soak, simply place 2 tbsp. of seeds in your container and cover with about two of inches of water. Set the container in an area that will not receive direct sunlight – indirect light is okay – and rinse the sprouts twice a day with cool water. To rinse, simply add clean, fresh water for about 10 seconds, and shake and pour out the excess water.
After a few days, the sprouts might start to clump together. When this happens, simply stir with a fork while rinsing the sprouts to break up any masses or clumps that have formed.
When they begin to turn green and grow leaves, rinse the sprouts and remove the hulls that have risen to the top of the container.
After a week, the sprouts are ready to be eaten. Store them in the refrigerator and eat within a couple of days for optimal freshness.
How Do You Eat Sprouts?
Sprouts can be eaten plain, or add them to any of these favorites:
- Salad
- Sandwich
- Stir fry
- Potato salad
- Egg salad
- Soups and stews
- Vegetable casseroles
- Omelets
Resource
International Sprout Growers Association
Teresa Shaw - Teresa J, Shaw is a professional journalist with more than 12 years of experience. She travels for both business and pleasure several ...
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