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“Sprouting” is becoming increasingly popular as people learn more about the numerous health benefits derived from eating these delicious shoots. Whether you live in a house or apartment, you can grow sprouts from the comfort of your own home offering a low-cost, simple, and effective way to boost your health. Growing sprouts can be a great addition to your kitchen routine as we’re all spending more time at home these days.
There are many different groups of sprouts you can grow including beans, peas, sprouted grains, nuts, seeds, vegetable or leafy sprouts. Sprouts are low in calories and packed with many beneficial nutrients outlined below. In addition, sprouts improve digestion and blood sugar levels, while also helping to prevent heart disease.
Why sprout?
The process of sprouting increases a plant’s nutrient levels making them richer than their full-grown counterparts in magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, protein, folate, and vitamins such as C and K. In addition, sprouts are full of amino acids and antioxidants.
What are Sprouts and How are They Grown?
Sprouts are seeds that have germinated and grown into very young, small plants. Germination typically begins once the seeds have been soaked for several hours. Once the seeds are soaked, they then need to be exposed to the right environment.
Temperature and moisture levels are key factors in the seeds’ ability to grow. The seeds will typically grow for 2-7 days before becoming sprouts. Once the sprouts are ready, they can be trimmed and eaten raw or cooked, but it is important to wash them thoroughly before consuming them.
To grow most sprouts, rinse the seeds first before placing them in a jar filled with water, allowing them to soak for 3-12 hours depending on the plant. After that, drain and rinse the seeds and repeat the draining and rinsing process with the jar for 2-7 days until the sprouts form. Each sprout varies by how it should be grown, so always be certain to read the instructions.
If you aren’t ready to grow your own, sprouts can be found at specialty grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Once they are ready to harvest, they can be eaten in salads, on toast, in sandwiches or in a variety of different recipes.
Broccoli Sprouts
Broccoli is one of the most popular types of sprouts people grow. They have a fresh and clean taste with a slightly grassy, earthy flavor. Broccoli sprouts have a crunchy texture while having a milder taste than adult broccoli. In addition to being rich in vitamins and nutrients, broccoli sprouts have double the amount of fiber as adult broccoli. They are fairly simple to grow, as they can be grown in a jar using the rinse and drain method in 3-4 days. They should be kept away from sunlight, in a spot that is cool.
Adding Sprouts to Your Diet
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Sprouts are full of many nutrients that can be beneficial to your overall health.
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They can be grown from your own home and can easily be incorporated into your meals.
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Sprouts can be a simple, inexpensive addition to your diet.
Happy sprouting!
Tony Manhart is founder and editor in chief at Gardening Dream. Tony’s enthusiasm and rich experience in all things related to growing plants have led him to share his abundant knowledge with gardening aficionados all over the world. When he is not working around his own garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on a variety of subjects related to plant cultivation and soil maintenance.
