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Sprouts are an amazing touch of freshness for your salads or sandwiches. However, they can be pretty expensive to buy from the grocery store. They are also much easier to grow than most people think. In this article, I will tell you exactly how to grow sprouts at home.
What are sprouts
Sprouts, also sometimes called microgreens, are the beginning of greens. A few days after a seed is exposed to the proper conditions, it will start germinating. After only a few days, it will grow to a couple of inches and be ready to consume.
There is a wide variety of sprouts. From broccoli sprouts to peas and beans, you can keep things interesting by growing different kinds of sprouts each week. With such a wide variety, you can incorporate different vitamins and minerals into your diet each week.
What do you need
- Seed sprouter kit (this is the one I have)
- Seeds (you can also buy those from amazon or a garden center)
For less than $30, you can get started and grow your own microgreens. It’s easy, fun, and delicious.
How to grow sprouts at home
Step 1
Put one or two tablespoons of seeds in a small glass container and cover them with water. Let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours.
Step 2
Spread your seeds evenly between both of your trays. Run water over the seeds to rinse them. Stack the tray and leave it on the counter.
Step 3
Rinse the seeds two to three times each day. This is a critical step. You need to keep the seeds moist and also keep mold from forming. You will let the sprouts grow for several days. I usually harvest them after about five days. Based on your preference, you might want to adjust this timeline.
Step 4
When the sprouts have grown to the desired length, rinse them thoroughly. You want to make sure there is no mold or moss on the microgreens. Trust me. It is better to rinse more than less.
Step 5
Dry the sprouts well using a clean towel.
Step 6
Place a paper towel at the bottom of a reusable air-tight storage container. Place the sprouts on top and lay another paper towel on top. Close the container and store them in the refrigerator. Your sprouts will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
Although they only last a short time, I recommend making a small amount at the time and starting a new batch when you harvest one so that you always have fresh sprouts on hand.
Favorite ways of eating sprouts
- On top of avocado toast
- On a BLT sandwich
- On an egg salad sandwich
- On top of a salad
- On top of crackers with cream cheese
In conclusion
Now that your know how to grow sprouts at home, I hope you will incorporate them into your diet. They will add nutrients and freshness to your meals and snacks.
Bon apetit!
Cat xx