It is believed that young plants contain a maximum of vitamins and other micronutrients. Scientific studies show that their content in microgreens can be much (up to 5 times) higher than in plants of the same crops. There is a completely logical explanation for this: it is at this time that plants most fully and efficiently use the nutrient reserves laid down at the stage of seed formation. Later, in older plants, the micronutrient content will depend on growing conditions, soil quality and other external factors. In addition, microgreens are easier and more completely digested by the body.
Chia Seeds (under $2.50/Oz)
Chia microgreens are ideal for those who want to lose a couple of extra pounds. The peculiarity of the germination of such seeds is that at first they are covered with a mucous gel-like membrane. As gourmets note, the taste of chia microgreens is mint, quite spicy with a slight bitterness. Nutrients contained in young sprouts improve digestion and speed up metabolism. Microgreens are good for the health of people with diabetes. Harvest – 10 days after germination.
Broccoli Seeds (under $1.25/Ounce)
The most delicious, popular and easy-to-sprout cabbage. Broccoli sprouts, although tiny, have many health benefits. Crispy broccoli microgreens have a mild and pleasant taste, not as bitter as an adult plant. Broccoli sprouts grows quite quickly. You can harvest it on the 7th day after sowing. In addition, broccoli does not need a lot of moisture, in comparison with other microgreens. It has anti-aging, anti-cancer, restorative properties.
Celery Seeds (under $2.25/Ounce)
The microgreen of this plant increases the body's resistance to infections and improves immunity. It strengthens the nervous system, slows down the aging process and promotes weight loss. Celery also improves blood circulation and normalizes blood pressure. Young celery sprouts have a salty-sweet, slightly spicy taste. In cooking, they decorate soups, sauces, salads and snacks. They are perfectly combined with both meat and fish dishes.
Pea Seeds (under $1/Ounce)
Pea microgreens taste slightly sweet and have a nutty flavor that resembles young green peas. Due to their crispy texture, peas pair well with fresh vegetables and are a great garnish for vegetable soups. When growing microgreens, you may notice that the peas absorb quite a bit of water, and this is completely normal. Therefore, it needs to be watered 1-2 times a day. Pea microgreens contain fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. It is rich in folic acid and vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6. Peas help boost immunity, improve eye health, control blood sugar levels, have anti-cancer effects, and more.
Radish Seeds (under $3.50/Oz)
Another of the most popular and easy to grow plants. Slightly crunchy and pungent microgreens taste similar to the root crop itself. An ideal seasoning for salads and meat dishes. Crispy sprouts can be harvested on the 6th day after emergence. Radish microgreens are a good source of vitamin C, energy and carbohydrates. It also contains zinc, potassium, folic acid, manganese and more. Radish microgreens are useful in improving the process of digestion of food due to the fact that it contains minerals, trace elements and essential oils, but it does not cause bloating like a root vegetable. Radish is a natural diuretic, has anti-inflammatory properties, helps prevent lung cancer and helps purify the blood.
Buyer's guide
- When choosing a crop for cultivation, it is necessary to take into account personal intolerance or allergies to certain products. For example, parsley and spinach sprouts are high in essential oils and flavonoids that can cause skin rashes.
- If you have problems with the gastrointestinal tract, you should not eat plants that can cause bloating (peas, chickpeas, cabbage) or an increase in acidity (sorrel, onion).
- Do not choose seeds that have been treated for pests. They contain many chemicals that are harmful to health.
