I'm new to sprouting and what I've learned about sprouting in school, combined with how easy it is to do, made me want to share this post with you!
According to Wikipedia "Sprouting is the natural germination process by which seeds or spores put out shoots, plants produce new leaves or buds, or other newly developing parts experience further growth. In the field of nutrition, the term signifies the practice of germinating seeds, to be eaten raw or cooked."
Below I will share the how to (which is super easy) on sprouting, but first I want to share the reasons why eating these little gems are such a great addition to your diet:
1.) Sprouts are rich in minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, selenium & magnesium. People who struggle with anemia and are concerned about osteoporosis should definitely add these to your plate, as they pack a powerful nutrition punch in the iron and calcium department.
2.) They help fight cancer due to phytochemical content.
3.) Good source of vitamins like vitamin K and vitamin C.
4.) Target inflammation from the inside.
5.) High in fibre.
6.) DETOX! Sprouts naturally help the body rid itself of harmful toxins.
7.) Aids in digestion process as they increase enzyme activity.
It's so amazing how something so small can carry such a rich list of health benefits, and whats even better is that sprouting at home is super easy!
First, you will need to purchase a sprouting kit. I bought mine at costco.ca and it came with the screens, as well as the seeds. You then just need the jars to fit the screen lids (as pictured below).
Next, you simply measure 1-2 tbsp of the seeds into the jar (following instructions of various seeds purchased on the bag).
Then you simply give your seeds a good rinse, draining though the screen. I like to rinse 2-3 times before the next step.
After you have rinsed your seeds, you will cover them with water and soak them overnight.
In the morning, drain your seeds and give them another quick rinse, then tip the jar upside down to drain for 10 mins on a towel.
After the seeds have been rinsed and drained, swirl the seeds around the jar so they stick to the edges and lay the jar on its side where its convenient. They do not need to be stored in the fridge at this point. This is the step you will repeat morning and evening until your sprouts are ready to eat.
Repeat the above step (noted in BOLD) morning and evening for 7-10 days (depending on the type of seed) until your sprouts are ready. You will know your sprouts are ready to eat when they are completely free of their husk and you can see they have matured to a nice green color.
Once your sprouts are ready, dump them into a large bowl and fill the bowl with cold water. Swirl the sprouts around and you will see the seed husks float either to the bottom or the top of the bowl. Discard the seed husks from the sprouts, and place your sprouts on a towel to dry for an hour or so.
Sprouts can then be stored in an air tight container for 7-10 days.
Use them on your favorite, salad, sandwich or smoothie and reap the health benefits of this fun, inexpensive nutrition practice!
Bye for now,
Jackelyn