How To: Sprout Your Own

(This article appeared in the May,2011 issue of A Healthy You)

A little bit actually goes a long way. You only need about 1/2 cup of legumes for each batch.

• Place 1/2 cup of legumes (lentils, mung beans, garbanzos, etc…) in a quart jar. (I use mason jars. I LOVE Mason Jars!)
• Cover with at least 2 cups of pure water.
• Cover the top of the jar with a cheesecloth, clean thin washcloth, or a mesh and secure (you can use rubber bands or the mason jar cap without the lid).
• Place in a warm location without direct sunlight.
• Soak overnight (for approximately 12 hours).
• Drain. You will need to rinse and drain them at least 2-3 times per day.
• When you see sprouts that are at least 1/4-1/2″ long, they are ready.
• Rinse them well and drain once again.

You can place the sprouts in the same mason jar, a zip-lock bag, or any other jar of your choosing and store them in the refrigerator. (I cover the sprouts with a paper towel to maintain freshness).

Enjoy them in salads, stir-fries, sandwiches, etc…