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Sprouting 101 – A Beginner’s Guide to Sprouts
Did you know that sprouts, although tiny, provide huge health benefits? Sprouts can improve the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins, promote gut health, and reduce intestinal gas. Sprouted seeds and greens also have more vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants.
That’s why today we’re sharing some simple-to-follow tips for those starting their sprouting journey!
Here is what you need to get started:
– A sprouting unit (such as a glass jar)
– Something to strain off liquid (such as a piece of mesh or screen)
– A natural disinfectant. You can make a healthy spray by mixing 40 drops of grapefruit seed extract in 500ml of clean water. Or try our Simple Citrus Cleaner recipe!
– Organic seeds, pulses, or beans cultivated specifically for sprouting. We’ve got lots of great options at Jo Anne’s Place
– Clean water. Filtered or spring – not reverse osmosis
– Optional: Add a few drops of trace minerals to your water every couple of days to increase nutrient content
Once you’ve gathered up your materials, it’s time to get started!
First, you’ll want to thoroughly clean your sprouting equipment in warm, soapy water and baking soda. Then, spray with your natural disinfectant spray. It can be helpful to purchase a nail brush exclusively for scrubbing the ridged surfaces and spray it with disinfectant after use – this one from Sustain Eco-Store is a great biodegradable option!
For each jar or sprouting tray, use 1 teaspoon of seeds. You can adjust the amount once you become familiar with the sprouting habit of each type of seed. Seeds should be soaked for a few hours to break down acid and enzyme inhibitors.
After thorough rinsing, place seeds gently in their sprouting container(s). Rinse your seeds twice a day to keep them clean and moist. Make sure they are drained thoroughly. The discarded water is great for household plants!
Until seeds start to sprout (usually 1-3 days), keep them out of bright light. As soon as they begin to sprout, place them in a bright spot but not in direct sunlight. When sprouts have reached the desired size you can store them in your fridge. Always wash them thoroughly before consuming.
Sprouts make a nutritious addition to any meal. Try topping your favourite salad with them, adding them to a delicious wrap, or using them to garnish your morning avocado toast! We’ve got lots of nutrient-dense recipes that sprouts make a great addition to – Browse them here.
All sprouting materials – from mason jars to seeds – are available at any Jo Anne’s Place location. See our store hours here.
Used our tips or ingredients? Tag us on Instagram @joannesplace – We’d love to share your progress!
