Growing Alfalfa Sprouts at Home
February 28, 2023
Alfalfa sprouts are a type of edible sprout that come from the legume family. They are a popular choice for salads, sandwiches and other meals, and their mild, nutty flavor is appealing to many. They are a source of fiber and vitamins, including iron, potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Alfalfa sprouts are a surprisingly easy and economical way to add a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins to your diet. With minimal equipment and effort, you can grow your own delicious alfalfa sprouts at home for a fraction of the cost you’d pay for them in stores. Read on to learn more about growing alfalfa sprouts.
What You Need
Before you get started, you’ll need a few basic supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Alfalfa seeds
- A shallow container (a large bowl works great)
- Unbleached cheesecloth
- Water
Step-By-Step Guide:
- To begin, add one cup of alfalfa seeds to your container.
- Cover the seeds with cool (not hot) water. Soak the seeds overnight.
- In the morning, drain the water and cover the seeds with a layer of damp cheesecloth or a kitchen towel. Make sure the cloth is damp, but not dripping wet.
- Rinse and drain the alfalfa seeds twice a day for three to four days, or until the sprouts are about an inch long.
- Once the sprouts are grown, move them to a dark, cool spot (such as a refrigerator) and rinse and drain them once a day, until you’re ready to eat them.
- Ready to eat! Enjoy your sprouts on salads, sandwiches, wraps, etc.
Tips and Tricks
When it comes to growing alfalfa sprouts, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure to keep the seeds and sprouts covered and out of direct sunlight. Too much light will cause the sprouts to turn yellow or brown!
- It is important to rinse and drain the sprouts regularly. This helps keep the sprouts moist and prevents them from getting moldy.
- If you’re looking for bigger sprouts, you can harvest them after a few days, instead of waiting until they reach an inch in length.
Alfalfa sprouts are a great way to add a nutritious, delicious addition to your meals. With a bit of patience and a few simple supplies, you can enjoy fresh-grown alfalfa sprouts in no time.
