Grow broccoli sprouts yourself: Instructions

Broccoli sprouts are he althy, tasty and easy to grow. The hot and spicy broccoli sprouts are a nice addition to many dishes, especially in winter.

In addition to the well-known soybean sprouts, a variety of other plants are also suitable for cultivating sprouts. Broccoli sprouts are particularly popular. They are he althy and easy to cultivate. In this article, you'll learn how to grow your own broccoli sprouts and the he alth benefits they bring.

What are broccoli sprouts?

Sprouts or seedlings are seeds that have just germinated. No light is required for germination, which means that the sprouts usually get a yellow to white color. The cotyledons are already visible, but not yet fully developed. After a few days, the sprouts are ready to eat. In the kitchen, the broccoli seedlings can be used in salads, wraps, soups or on bread. They are slightly spicy and taste like cabbage.

Tip: In addition to broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), sprouts can be used, for example also made from soya (Glycine max), lentils (Lens culinaris), mustard (Sinapsis) or alfalfa (Medicago sativa). You can find an overview of suitable types of sprouts and their he alth benefits in our article on sprouts.

Grow your own broccoli sprouts

To grow your own broccoli sprouts, you need a germinating container, seeds, water and a little patience. You can find sprouting bowls or sprouting jars on the market that make germination easier - but it works just as well with a clean mason jar and a filter cloth to cover it. The optimal germination temperature for broccoli seedlings is between 18 and 22 °C. It is important to always pay attention to hygiene during all work. The humid and warm conditions are also ideal for the growth of fungi and bacteria.

Instructions: Germinate broccoli sprouts

1. Wash the broccoli seeds liberallyTap water, for example in a colander.
2. The seeds are then soaked in water for 6 - 8 hours. If a sprout jar is used, the seed can be swollen in the jar.
3. Pour off the water. If a germination tray is used, spread the seeds in the tray.
4. Place the sprout jar or germination tray in a dark, 18 - 22 °C warm place and water the seeds at least twice a day. Tap water is poured into the glass for a few minutes and then allowed to drain again.
5. After 3 - 5 days the broccoli sprouts are ready. The first cotyledons should be visible but not fully developed.

Tip: Sprouts do not keep very long and should be eaten quickly. The sprouts will only keep for about two days in a sealed container in the fridge.

How he althy are broccoli sprouts?

Broccoli sprouts contain comparatively high amounts of sulforophane, a so-called mustard oil, which has a high antioxidant effect. These substances help the body to prevent diseases. In addition, the sprouts contain iron, phosphorus, calcium and zinc as well as vitamins B1, B2, C and E. Since sprouts are usually only consumed in small amounts, they cannot replace a balanced diet, but only supplement it.

Can you eat broccoli sprouts raw? Yes, you can. Unlike sprouts from legumes such as lentils or soy, broccoli seedlings and other cruciferous plants (Brassicaceae) do not need to be heated to be more digestible.

In addition to broccoli seeds, many other seeds are also suitable for growing sprouts. Alfalfa sprouts, for example, are very delicate, decorative and contain saponins that have a positive effect on intestinal he alth.