growing sprouts for salad

[mom-from-missouri]

I want to grow some sprouts-bean and broccoli for salad. I got the seeds. The seed package recommends you use a bean sprouter, but I thought it was a ripoff. I am going to try to grow them in water in a clear glass jar with a cloth lid. I will rinse and change the water daily. I can't see why the sprouter was over $15. Looks like it is just a jar with a cheese cloth lid.. Has anyone else tried the jar method?? Did it work?

[SeeAPenny]

Yes, I sprouted that way for years, and it works perfectly fine. I did pick up a commerical-style seed sprouter several years ago, when I by chance ran across a great sale *plus* a rebate (making the thing cost only a few dollars) --so that's what we use now, although I can't say it's really any better than the old canning jar method. Anyway, sprouting the seeds has become my 11 y.o. DS's job --we call him our 'Sprout Farmer' (he's getting a batch going this afternoon in fact). Since he loves gardening, it's a good household chore for him. Healthy too....

[DivaJen]

Would either of you like to post directions for doing this? Thanks

[mom-from-missouri]

Its easy. I use a clear glass jar, and put about 2 inches of water in it. Then I add my seeds, and put a square of cheesecloth (or any very breathable fabric) over the top of the jar with a rubber band. The fabric needs to let in air-but keep critters-flies and such out. I keep my jar in a sunny location. DAILY, you must dump out the old water, and put in fresh water. Be careful not to dump out the seeds when you change the water. If you dont change the water, it will get icky and ferment on you. It takes 3-6 days for the sprouts to sprout.

[SeeAPenny]

My jar method is a bit different. I use a quart canning jar and cheesecloth -- fastening the cheesecloth to the top by screwing a canning lid ring around it, holding it tight. After an initial overnight soaking of the seeds (about a tablespoon or so), I drain off all water through the cheesecloth, and invert the jar in a bowl at a slight angle, so it can continue to fully drain. Then I rinse the sprouting seeds at least every 12 hours ( more if possible) as they grow, keeping the jar inverted between rinsings to drain. Also, after each rinsing and draining, I 'flick' the jar a bit, shaking it so that the wet seeds inside stick to the sides of the jar (spreading them out a bit), and don't stay all clumped on the bottom. I also keep my jar in the cupboard in the dark during the entire sprouting process (which, depending on the temperature, etc, can take between 3 - 6 days) --except for the very end, when I may or may not set the jar in the sun (optional) to turn the sprouts green (from the chlorophyll). Just before using, I give the sprouts one more big rinse to remove some of the loose seed coverings. Store the fresh sprouties in the fridge -- but do try to use as soon as possible. ....

[ParsnipsRhubarbCelery]

Hi, interesting thread! I've been wondering something: what kind of sprouts are the normal 'basic' sprouts you get on a sandwich? Are those called, "bean sprouts," or, "alfalfa sprouts?"
Thank you!!

[mom-from-missouri]

Either-I have also done bamboo shoots as well.

[LuxLiving]

Don't forget you can do radish sprouts as well as alfalfa, mung bean, lentils, mustard, lettuce, watercress, cabbage, chia, pumpkin, spinach, etc.

Or we can also sprout soybeans, pinto beans, fava beans, lima, garbanzos and also peas.

Or grains such as wheat, quinoa, rice, rye, millet, sesame, barley, etc.

Or nuts such as sunflower, almonds and peanuts.

DO NOT EAT potato or tomato sprouts. And buy your seeds for sprouting at a food co-op or natural food store, not ones that have been treated for garden planting.