Tiny Powerhouses: How to Grow Broccoli Sprouts at Home (and Why You Should!)

Let's be honest, my track record with plants isn't exactly great. So, the idea of growing anything, especially something as seemingly delicate as sprouts, felt incredibly intimidating.

After reading ‘The Sprout Book’ by Doug Evans, I decided to give it a try! Turns out, you don't need a green thumb to grow broccoli sprouts. If I can do it, trust me, anyone can.

What Are Broccoli Sprouts and Why Are They So Good For You?

To start, broccoli sprouts are actually young broccoli plants that have been harvested just after germination. They contain a significantly higher level of sulforaphane than mature broccoli. Sulforaphane provides antioxidant power, helping to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and disease. Sulforaphane supports detoxification, aiding your body's natural process of eliminating harmful toxins. Sulforaphane has anti-inflammatory effects and has shown potential in cancer prevention research. Beyond sulforaphane, broccoli sprouts are packed with fibre, which aids in digestion, and essential vitamins like vitamin C and K, which support immune function and bone health.

Mumm’s Sprouting Seeds are sourced from farms that are committed to organic farming without the use of GMO's, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.

How to Grow Broccoli Sprouts at Home

Materials Needed:

• Sprouting seeds (ensure they are specifically for sprouting and food-grade)

• Sprouting jar or container (a wide-mouth, 32-ounce, mason jar with a sprouting lid or cheesecloth works well)

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Sprouting Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Soak: Add 1-2 tablespoons of broccoli sprouting seeds to your mason jar. Rinse them with cool water and drain. Fill the jar with fresh, cool water and let the seeds soak overnight (8-12 hours).

• Drain and Rinse: In the morning, drain the soaking water completely. Rinse the seeds thoroughly with fresh, cool water and drain again.

• Position for Drainage: Place the jar at an angle in a bowl or on a dish rack to allow for proper drainage and air circulation. Or use a sprouting jar kit.

• Rinse Regularly: Rinse the sprouts with fresh, cool water 2-3 times per day, ensuring to drain them thoroughly after each rinse.

• Observe Cilia: Around day 3, you may notice tiny, white root hairs called cilia. These are a sign of healthy growth, not mold. If you see them, your sprouts may be thirsty and need an extra rinse.

• Harvest: Around day 5, your sprouts will be ready to harvest when they have small, green leaves. Rinse the sprouts in a bowl of cool water and drain. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner.

• Storage: Store your sprouts in the refrigerator in a container lined with paper towels.

How to Use Broccoli Sprouts

Broccoli sprouts are incredibly versatile and can be added to many dishes. I love them on avocado toast and as a topping on scrambled tofu.

• Serving Suggestions:

  • Salads

  • Sandwiches and wraps

  • Smoothies

  • Juices

  • Garnishes

  • On top of soups

  • In a stir fry, added right at the end

I hope this guide has inspired you to try growing your own broccoli sprouts. It's a fantastic way to add a healthy and delicious boost to your meals. Now that you know how easy it is, what are you waiting for? Grab some sprouting seeds, a mason jar, and get started! And don't forget to share your sprouting journey in the comments below – I'd love to hear about your experiences!

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