Sprouts!
Nope, not talking about the store (though it IS one I frequent often).
Not talking about PBS Kids Sprout (though they do show Thomas the Train, which Benjamin loves).
I’m talking about sprouted grains, seeds, nuts, beans, and even rice (is rice a grain?).
Do you know what sprouting is? Or its purpose?
Sprouting is soaking, draining, and rinsing at regular intervals until your object germinates, or…sprouts! When you sprout, you are activating important enzymes necessary for digestion. Sprouting also destroys enzyme inhibitors, like phytic acid. If you don’t know what that means, or don’t care, just know that sprouts contain an abundance of nutrients.
I’m really just discovering the world of sprouting, but it IS of particular interest to me because of Benjamin’s diet. We are finding out (like Sara), that enzymes may play an important role in the gluten/casein free arena. After all, a gluten/casein intolerance is basically an inability to digest those proteins. I have yet to figure out if sprouts can be as effective as enzyme supplements, but……it’s worth a shot, right?
I’ve already started sprouting my rice before I cook it (which shortens cooking time!), and I LOVE the taste and texture. I am going to try sprouting my pinto beans before I make the most fabulous refried beans ever.
I also have yet to figure out if the nutritional benefit of sprouting is negated by cooking. Hmmm… But, just in case y’all want to go on the journey with me, here are some links.
Sprout People – they have TONS of information.
Provident Storehouse – their main site is dedicated to preparedness, but this link is an “Intro to Sprouting”.
Primal Seeds – easy to read, all on one page, basic information
Sprout Master – sells sprouting trays and other products.
Wikipedia on Sprouting – the neutrality of the article is disputed, but it gives a starting point and basic information if you want to research it more.
Slightly Obsessed 