How To Sprout Your Own Microgreens
Microgreens are a great way to make the most of these amazing plants that can help improve yoru families nutrition and feed yoru famiily for less.
You can grow your own microgreens for next to nothing to help save your family money and make the most of your income and help fight inflation at the grocery store.
What are microgreens
Microgreens are small, edible plants that are harvested when they are still very young, typically at the first or second leaf stage. They are smaller than baby greens and larger than sprouts, and they are often used as a garnish or added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes to add a pop of color, texture, and flavor.
Microgreens can be grown from a variety of different seeds, including herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers. Some common types of microgreens include kale, arugula, radish, beet, chia, and sunflower.
One of the advantages of microgreens is that they are incredibly nutritious. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they contain high levels of enzymes, which can aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. Microgreens are also easy to grow at home, and they can be grown indoors year-round using a variety of growing methods, including soil-based or hydroponic systems.
Microgreens are a popular ingredient in the culinary world due to their unique flavors, textures, and colors. They add a fresh, vibrant touch to a wide variety of dishes, and they can be used in both sweet and savory applications. Some of the ways you can use microgreens include:
- As a garnish on soups, salads, and sandwiches
- In smoothies and juices for added nutrition
- As a topping on pizza or pasta dishes
- Mixed into scrambled eggs or omelets
- As a base for a pesto or sauce
- In cocktails or mocktails for added flavor and color
Overall, microgreens are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can add a delicious and healthy touch to your meals. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, microgreens are a fun and easy way to experiment with new flavors and textures in your cooking.
What plants make the best microgreens?
There are many different types of microgreens, each with their own unique flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. Some of the most popular and nutritious microgreens include:
Arugula: Arugula microgreens have a spicy, peppery flavor that pairs well with salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. They are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Broccoli: Broccoli microgreens have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron. They are often used in salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries.
Kale: Kale microgreens have a slightly bitter flavor and are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. They are a great addition to salads, smoothies, and sandwiches.
Radish: Radish microgreens have a spicy, peppery flavor and are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They add a great crunch to salads, sandwiches, and tacos.
Beet: Beet microgreens have a sweet, earthy flavor and are high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. They are often used in salads, smoothies, and sandwiches.
Sunflower: Sunflower microgreens have a nutty flavor and are high in vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. They are often used as a garnish on salads, soups, and sandwiches.
Cilantro: Cilantro microgreens have a citrusy, herbaceous flavor and are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. They are a great addition to salads, tacos, and stir-fries.
Pea: Pea microgreens have a sweet, mild flavor and are high in protein, vitamin C, and vitamin A. They are often used in salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
How to grow your own microgreens
Choose your seeds: You can grow microgreens from a variety of seeds, including kale, broccoli, radish, and more. Choose seeds that are specifically labeled for microgreen growing, as they will produce the best results.
Prepare your jar: Fill a mason jar with potting soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Moisten the soil with water, but be careful not to overwater it.
Add your seeds: Sprinkle a thin layer of seeds on top of the soil, covering the surface evenly. Press the seeds lightly into the soil to ensure good contact.
Cover and let them sprout: Cover the jar with a mesh or cheesecloth to allow air to circulate while keeping the seeds moist. Place the jar in a warm, bright location, such as a windowsill or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist by misting it with water once or twice a day.
Harvest your microgreens: Once the microgreens have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, they are ready to harvest. Use scissors to snip off the tops of the microgreens, leaving about an inch of stem attached. Rinse the microgreens thoroughly with water, and pat them dry with a towel.
Use your microgreens: Microgreens are a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. They are packed with flavor and nutrition, and they add a beautiful pop of color to your meals. By growing your own microgreens, you can ensure that you’re getting the freshest, most nutritious produce possible.
