Do you remember being a young kid and growing little sprouts from tiny beans wrapped in wet paper towels? I always loved seeing the process of the tiny buds emerging from the little seeds. Little did I know that sprouting was a real thing and has been practiced for thousands of years! Sprouts have a history of being used in Chinese medicine as a remedy for several illnesses due to their highly nutritious qualities. Simply put, sprouting is the process when the seeds, nuts, grains, beans, or spores germinate and put out shoots that are extremely healthy. Keep reading to learn how to grow your own sprouts!
Are They Nutritious?
Each seed contains tons of nutrients that allow them to germinate and grow into plants! The sprouts have the highest amount of nutrients within the first seven days of sprouting, about 20 times more than the adult plant. They are very nutritious and easy to grow! Even if you don’t have a green thumb, they require no space, barely any sunlight, and can be grown right on your kitchen countertop. All you have to do is rinse them, sit back and watch the little sprouts grow within just a matter of days! There’s nothing quite like growing your own nutritious food that can be shared with the entire family.
The Benefits of Sprouting
Sprouts are a great way to get tons of nutrients in your body! They are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. The best part of sprouting is that you can avoid spending tons of money on them at the grocery store and you are in complete control of the sprouting process meaning no added toxins! Sprouts are extremely versatile and can add tons of nutrients to dishes such as sandwiches, salads, or even soups for a little added crunch!
What are the Best Seeds for Sprouting?
Some seeds are definitely easier than others to sprout, so for now, let’s focus on the lower maintenance seeds that are most common. For all sprouts, it is pretty standard to let them soak for about 6-12 hours and to rinse them every morning and night for about seven days.
- Mung Beans – If you are a first-timer, you should definitely start with these sweet sprouts. They are typically used in salads, but could also be great on an avocado toast! The best thing about these guys is that soaking time is only 12 hours, and you’ll start seeing little sprouts within just one day! Then will be ready to eat within 3-4 days!
- Alfalfa – Probably the most well-known sprout you’ll find in the grocery store, on sandwiches, and on top of salads! They have a mild flavor so are also a great sprout for beginners. All you have to do is soak these for 6-8 hours, and you will see sprouts in about 5-7 days.
- Daikon Radish – These are great if you want a zesty kick to your sprouts! Just so you know, these sprouts can grow fuzzy white hairs that are often mistaken for mold so don’t worry if you see these little hairs, they are harmless! Soak these radishes for 4-6 hours and notice sprouts between 4-5 days.
Rambo Radish – Not only are these sprouts perfect for adding spice to your favorite dishes, but they are also a gorgeous purple color that will make anything look, gourmet. Just let these guys soak for about 6-12 hours and wait for the magic to happen!
Broccoli – Instead of eating your favorite vegetables, how about trying their sprouts? These are extremely popular here in America because of their light, fluffy, yet crunchy texture. Soak these for about 8-10 hours and just wait 5 short days to eat them!
Crimson Clover – These are fun because they produce a very crunchy, leafy sprout! Their leaves are actually the largest of the sprouts so they tend to have a little bit extra crunch. Let them soak for 12-24 hours and harvest after 6 days! You will start seeing sprouts after 2 days but be patient.
- Kale – Another favorite! This sprout has a mild taste that has hints of sweetness in them. Soak them for about 4-12 hours and wait for your little sprouts to grow.
- Red lentil – Lentils are part of the legume family, which is what gives them their earthy yet peppery taste. Just let them soak for about 8-14 hours and watch them sprout within the next 1-2 days.
- Mustard – Mustard sprouts take a little longer to than other sprouts to finally grow but don’t let that deter you. They are amazingly delicious and are great on top of salads. Soak them for about 6-12 hours and then just wait 4 days for them to finally sprout.
I buy all of my sprouting seeds from Mountain Rose Herbs. For more on how to grow your own sprouts, make sure and finish reading this article on their blog!! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments, and happy sprouting!!
