Sprouts: Out of the Jar and onto Your Plate

The seeds of grain, legumes, and other plants may be sprouted to provide an excellent source of micronutrients. Sprouts germinate in 2-7 days providing nutrition in the form of vitamins A, B, C and E which increase if the sprouts are provided light and the leaves allowed to green. Rich in antioxidants sprouts are easily grown in little space all though the year.

Seed for sprouts must be seeds that have been developed for consumption; not garden seed that may have been chemically treated. Many seeds and seed blends are available for growing sprouts: Alfalfa, Broccoli, Buckwheat, Chick-Pea, Clover, Fenugreek, Kidney bean, Lentil, Mung bean and many blends such as Crunchy Bean Mix, Garlic Chives, Ancient Easter Blend and more.

Growing Sprouts

Seeds and equipment for growing safe and nutritious sprouts are available from several online sources. The equipment is specially designed to allow the right amount of light and moisture to be available to the seeds to promote growth. Seeds available for sprouting have not been treated or irradiated. Seeds of many varieties allow selection based on flavor, color and texture. Growing sprouts is easy, quick and brings both increased nutrition and flavor to food

Special equipment is not a necessity for growing sprouts. Sprouts may be grown in a clean glass jar covered with cheesecloth. The seeds are placed into the jar, covered with water and allowed to soak overnight. The next day simply drain the water from the seeds, rinse them and drain again. Drain and rinse the seeds several times a day until the sprouts reach the desired length.

Using Sprouts

When the sprouts reach the desired size they can be washed, the seeds removed, dried and stored in the refrigerator for several days. There are several methods of washing and removing the seeds. It is easy to place the sprouts in a bowl, cover them with water and watch the seeds float to the top surface of the water. Then simply press the sprouts under the water holding them as you pour off the water and seeds. Grab the sprouts in your hands and shake off the excess water; place the sprouts into a colander and allow them to drain and dry. Place the drained sprouts in a container, seal and place in the refrigerator for storage.

Sprouts can be added to salads, sandwiches, main dishes and added to soups, baked potatoes and eggs for extra nutrition, flavor and color. Some of the online sites offer free recipes for adding sprouts to sandwiches, salads, dishes and soups.

Online and Catalog Sources for Seed and Equipment

The properties and quality of the equipment and seeds available vary. Check several sources and read about the equipment before you order. I found a very wide rage in price for seed.

Gardens Alive offers an online service as well as catalog service for seed and growing equipment. Inquire at: www.GardensAlive.com or call 513-354-1482

Seed Sprouter $12.95

Organic Alfalfa Sprouts 4 oz of seed $9.95

Jung Seeds & Plants also is available online or will send a catalog:

www.jungseed.com or call 1-800-247-5864

Bio-Starter Sprouter $17.95

Alfalfa seed ½ lb $8.95

Sprout People is an online site that offers a wide range of equipment, seed, instruction, recipes and more. It is an excellent source of supplies and information.

Seed Sprouting Equipment in many sizes, types and prices

Alfalfa seed 1 lb $8.24