Alfalfa Seed (Sprouting)

Alfalfa Seeds easily create delicious, healthy fresh sprouts, and Alfalfa is North America's best known sprout. Fresh alfalfa sprouts are a healthy and economical addition to salads, sandwiches and other dishes. Super Sprouts The body of research detailing the health benefits of sprouted whole grains is growing daily. Sprouts are far more enzyme-rich than uncooked fruits or veggies, and sprouting increases the vitamin and nutrient content of seeds. Alfalfa sprouts are the shoots of the alfalfa plant, harvested before they become the full-grown plant. Because these sprouts are small, they contain a concentrated amount of vitamins and minerals including calcium, vitamin K and vitamin C. Alfalfa sprouts contain just 8 calories and 0 grams of fat per cup. Alfalfa sprouts also contain beneficial toestrogens and saponins, compounds which can help lower LDL, or bad, cholesterol while increasing HDL, or "good" cholesterol, and helping to boost immune system function. Tasty Tips and Storage Alfalfa sprouts complement a wide variety of recipes, or can be enjoyed on their own as a nutritious snack. Add rinsed alfalfa sprouts to green salad, roll them up in wraps or layer them into sandwiches. Top a burger with fresh sprouts or add them to a pita stuffed with hummus. Adding sprouts to your serving of pasta or salad boosts flavour and delivers important nutrients. Sprouting is easy, and economical compared to the cost of store-bought sprouts. And nothing compares with the taste and nutrition of fresh sprouts you grow yourself! Sprouting can be done with a mason jar and "cheesecloth" or screen lid, or using any of the kits on the market. Experimenting will enable you to perfect the technique that's right for you. Note: Always rinse alfalfa sprouts thoroughly under running water for one to two minutes and allow them to drain before eating them.