Sprouting is the practice of soaking, draining and then rinsing seeds, beans or grains at regular intervals until they germinate, or sprout. So, what’s the big deal (as my kids would say)? Sprouting beans and grains actually changes the nutrient contents. The protein quality increases, fiber increases, essential fatty acid increases, vitamin content increases and minerals chelate that increase their function and sprouts are easily digested. Need I say more?
Many raw foodists eat lots of sprouted beans and grains to get their protein and fiber. I tried doing about 70% raw a few years ago but lost too much weight but I wasn’t doing the sprouted foods. The only things I have sprouted myself is chickpeas and that was for a raw hummus recipe. Delicious but it takes a 8 hours of soaking and then 2 days of rinsing before they are sprouted and ready to use so not really something you can do on a whim. I have found two amazing products that I love right now. truRoots Organic Sprouted Green Lentils and thanks to my sister-in-law I have come to love the truRoots Organic Sprouted Mung Beans. I have only found these at Whole Foods. You could sprout your own lentils since they are pretty easy to find but I have not found mung beans but suppose you could find at an Indian or perhaps Asian market.
I have two delicious recipes for these items below.
Lentil Tacos
1 c truRoots Sprouted Lentils (could use regular lentils too)
1/2 – 3/4 c diced tomatoes
1 T olive oil
1/2 t garlic powder
1/2 t cumin
1/2 t paprika
1/2 t chili powder
1/2 t crushed red pepper (optional)
1/2 t minced onion
1. Cook lentils according to directions.
2. In a medium-sized pot, combine the tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil and spices. Cook over medium-high heat until tomatoes start to soften, about 5 minutes or so.
3. Add your drained lentils and cook for another 5 -10 minutes, until the lentils have really absorbed all the flavors. Add extra spices as necessary.
4. Assemble with whole grain tortillas, guacamole, salsa, etc.
Sprouted Mung Beans
1 c truRoots Organic Sprouted Mung Beans
3 c vegetable broth or chicken broth or water
1/2 t garlic powder
1/2 t cumin
1/2 t salt
2 T lime juice
1. Bring broth or water to boil in a pot and add mung beans. Cook 5-7 minutes. Turn off the heat, and cover with lid and let sit for 5 minutes.
Drain excess liquid, if needed.
2. Add seasonings and lime juice to taste. If used water may want more seasonings.
Enjoy! I haven’t tried with rice but I’m sure that would be delicious.
By the way, I hope everyone is having a great and healthy new year! I have lots to come so stay tuned….
Just a Healthy Mom 