Sprouted lentils are seeds that have germinated and are on their way to becoming a mature plant once the cycle is completed. The sprouts however are consumed long before they reach maturity. Once the growth starts the raw lentil becomes a powerhouse of nutrients. Typically a sprouted lentil is consumed once the tiny white tail appears, this usually happens within 2-3 days of germination.
What are the benefits of sprouting?
First and foremost the taste of sprouted lentils is crunchy, refreshing and satisfying to the palate. Sprouting helps break down enzymes making them easier to digest. The process also increases the potency of necessary vitamins and minerals.
Can you cook sprouted lentils?
Yes, you can cook sprouted lentils, but I prefer to eat then raw or slightly blanch them as I want to retain as many nutrients and flavor as possible. I suggest heating them for only about 1-2 minutes, just long enough to heat them.
How do I sprout lentils?
Lentils are so easy to sprout and typically are ready to use within a couple of days.
Materials: Quart sized mason jar or similar sized container, mesh lid, medium sized bowl, ½-3/4 cup of lentils of choice.
Rinse ½-3/4 cup of lentil of your choice or mix several types of lentils together, remove any tiny stones and debris. (½-3/4 cup should yield approximately 2 cups of sprouts which is enough for most recipes.
Place in a quart-sized Mason jar or similar sized sprouting container, cover with 2-3 cups of water (allow for expansion) and use a mesh lid or cover with towel. Soak for at least 8 hours.
Drain all water and rinse several times. If not using a mesh lid, use a strainer/colander. Make sure to remove all excess water as lentils should be as dry as possible (this ends the soaking phase).
Invert jar at an angle over a bowl to allow for drainage and air circulation (store out of direct sunlight).
Repeat rinse cycle and drain 2 times a day (morning and evening preferred) until tiny tails begin to emerge.
Feel free to harvest anytime after 2-3 days. Drain extremely well before storing. Sprouts can be stored in an air tight container in refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Check Out Some Other Healthy and Delicious Recipes with Sprouted Lentils
How to sprout lentils
Equipment
- quart-sized mason jar or similar sized container for sprouting
- mesh lid or towel
- medium sized bowl for resting container in
Ingredients
- ½-¾ cup lentils any type of choice such as black beluga, French or green
Instructions
- Rinse ½-3/4 cup of lentil of your choice or mix several types of lentils together, remove any tiny stones and debris. (½-3/4 cup should yield approximately 2 cups of sprouts which is enough for most recipes.
- Place in a quart-sized Mason jar or similar sized sprouting container, cover with 2-3 cups of water (allow for expansion) and use a mesh lid or cover with towel. Soak for at least 8hours.
- Drain all water and rinse several times. If not using a mesh lid, use a strainer/colander. Make sure to remove all excess water as lentils should be as dry as possible (this ends the soaking phase).
- Invert jar at an angle over a bowl to allow for drainage and air circulation (store out of direct sunlight).
- Repeat rinse cycle and drain 2 times a day (morning and evening preferred) until tiny tails begin to emerge.
- Feel free to harvest any time after 2-3 days. Drain extremely well before storing. Sprouts can be stored in an air tight container in refrigerator for up to 7 days.
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