How to Grow Your Own Sprouts

Growing your own sprouts is one of the easiest ways to grow your own food, anyone can do it on their kitchen counter. Check out this website for seeds, instructions and sprouting supplies. You can purchase a mesh lid that fits on a wide mouth (mayonnaise) jar for $3.99 and organic seeds at very reasonable prices. A little goes a long way with the seeds, try a few different kinds, you will be amazed at how different they taste.

This picture is of pea sprouts, they need more room, the next time I grow them it will be in a larger jar. Radish sprouts are a spicy treat and I am looking forward to sprouting some flax seed. Just a note for those following the SCD diet, sprouted grains and seeds are illegals so start with the veggie sprouts.

Now to get to the instructions. First of all you do not need to purchase seeds specifically for sprouting but you will have a better success rate if you do. Soak the seeds overnight in a wide mouth glass jar. Cover with cheesecloth and a canning ring or a purchased mesh lid, and drain. Keep the jar on it's side on a towel on the kitchen counter in indirect sunlight rinsing every morning and night for 3-7 days depending on your sprouts. You do not want water left in the jar, just rinse and drain. Once they are the size you like them to be place them in a shallow bowl and fill with cold water. Swish the sprouts around with your hands until the seed hulls are floating. Drain. Store the sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator with a damp paper towel. They will keep 1-2 weeks and are great on salads and sandwiches.