Benefits of broccoli sprouts and ways to germinate seeds

Broccoli sprouts are called a drug product, they are necessary for proper nutrition. Sprouts have healing, antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects. One germinated seed contains the same amount of nutrients as a kilogram of cabbage. We will tell you in detail how to germinate broccoli seeds for food in order to get a source of vitamins, trace elements, antioxidants at home and protect yourself from diseases.

Useful properties of broccoli sprouts: why grow them and eat them

In dry grains, beneficial elements are inactive. During germination, complex substances are broken down into simple ones, which are absorbed more easily and faster.

Sprouted grains are used for the prevention and treatment of diseases:

• ulcers of the stomach and duodenum;
• visual impairment;
• diseases of the nervous system;
• skin damage;
• atherosclerosis;
• deviations in the work of the heart and blood vessels;
• violation of the musculoskeletal system.

Sprouts heal all organs due to the presence of chemical compounds:

• sulforaphane destroys cancer cells, slows down their growth, has a bactericidal effect (it is found in large quantities in cabbage seed and is distributed throughout the vegetable with growth);
• glucoraphanin lowers blood pressure, normalizes kidney function;
• phenols are effective for the prevention of asthma and diabetes mellitus;
• mononucleotides are involved in the energy metabolism of cells.

What should be the seeds of broccoli for germination

For germination, it is important to use quality grains specially designed for for diet food... They should not be treated with pesticides or other chemicals. These harmful substances destroy sulforaphane and other beneficial elements contained in cabbage grains. Because of this, the therapeutic effect of the use of seedlings is reduced. Seeds that are sold in stores are not always worth eating.

Choose seeds that are intact, free of stains, free of fungal diseases, and not overdried.

Important! When buying, choose seeds that are labeled “for germination” on the packaging.

Planting material for seedlings should be:

• safe;
• environmentally friendly;
• certified.

Preparing dishes and seeds

First, the seeds and utensils are prepared for sowing. Plastic transparent containers with a depth of at least 10 cm with lids or glass jars are suitable. In the absence of a cover, use a plastic wrap.

The dishes and the lid are processed:

1. Doused with boiling water or immersed in a bleach solution for 20 minutes (9 parts water to one part household bleach).
2. Rinse with clean water.

Seed preparation:

1. 2-3 st. l. planting material is poured with water at room temperature overnight.
2. In the morning, drain the water and transfer the seeds to a treated container for germination.

For 15 cm² of the area of ​​the container, 1 tbsp. l. planting material.

How to germinate broccoli sprouts for food

Grow sprouts in two ways: in the ground and without it.

The sprouts are ready for consumption when microgreens appear - leaves 2-6 cm long. For a good harvest, warmth and high humidity are needed.

In the ground

Soil is good for germination for seedlings or houseplants. Algorithm of actions:

1. A thin layer of moist soil is poured into the processed dishes.
2. Seeds are distributed from above.
3. Sprinkle with a thin layer of moist soil.
4. Cover the dishes with a lid or stretch plastic wrap.
5. Leave the container at room temperature without access to sunlight for 3-5 days before the first sprout appears, if necessary, irrigate with water from a spray bottle.
6. After 5 days, rearrange in a place with indirect sunlight to accumulate chlorophyll. The leaves turn green.
7. Harvest after 1-2 days.

The sprouts are cut with scissors or taken out of the soil into a bowl of cold water and washed gently. The soil is reused. The optimum temperature for growth is + 18 ... + 24 ° С.

Attention! Direct sunlight will harm the sprouts.

Without soil

To obtain microgreens, use paper towels or gauze:

1. Several wet layers of paper towels are placed on the bottom of the treated container.
2. Sprinkle the soaked seeds on a towel and cover it loosely with a lid or stretch a film with holes for ventilation.
3. Harvest after 5 days.

Maintain a constant temperature of about + 21 ° C.

Second way:

1. After soaking and washing, the seeds are placed in a container and placed in a dark place for 3 days.
2. The grains are washed 2-3 times a day, citric acid is added to the water once to prevent mold.
3. On the fourth day, the jar is exposed to light to accumulate chlorophyll.
4. Harvest the next day.

How to eat correctly

They use microgreens in their pure form, in a salad, in the form of a sauce, mixed with sour cream and garlic. It is mixed in a blender with vegetables, fruits, herbs. Microgreens taste like white cabbage.

The sprouts can be stored in a container in the refrigerator for up to five days without the lid tightly covered. They must first be washed and dried for 6-8 hours on a paper towel. After two days, rinse and dry again for further storage.

How many broccoli sprouts should you eat per day

To healthy food get used gradually. The first time they use 1-2 tsp. sprouts in the morning is an active meal. It is undesirable to take at night - there may be insomnia. After 3 months, the amount is brought to 70 g - this is the maximum portion.

Important! Sprouts are not consumed with dairy products - this will cause increased gas formation.

Conclusion

Sprouts broccoli will replenish the lack of vitamins and minerals in the body in spring and winter. They are grown in soil and on paper. A good harvest requires warmth and moisture. Regular use of microgreens increases immunity and prevents diseases of internal organs.