What Are Microgreens?

What are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young, edible plants that are harvested in the early growth stage, usually after 1 week of germination of the seeds. These small but powerful green plants are packed with flavor and nutrients and have become very popular in both professional and home kitchens in recent years. In this blog you will discover what microgreens are, why they are so popular, and how you can easily use them in your daily meals.

What makes microgreens special?

Microgreens are often confused with sprouts such as bean sprouts, but they are actually a step further in the growth cycle. Unlike sprouts, which are grown without light, microgreens grow with the help of light and often develop a few more leaves. This provides a more intense flavor and a higher concentration of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Research has shown that microgreens can contain up to four times more nutrients than their mature counterparts!

Popular Types of Microgreens

There are numerous types of microgreens, each with their own unique flavor profile and properties. Here are some popular varieties:

• Radish microgreens : A spicy flavor similar to radish itself, ideal as an addition to salads or sandwiches.
• Broccoli microgreens : Mild and slightly sweet in taste. Broccoli microgreens are known for their high concentration of sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant.
• Sunflower microgreens : Crunchy and nutty, delicious as a snack or as a topping on various dishes.
• Green pea microgreens : A sweet, fresh flavor that goes great with salads and sandwiches. They are also rich in protein and fiber.

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Why should you eat microgreens?

In addition to their culinary benefits, microgreens are also great for your health. They contain high concentrations of vitamins such as vitamin C, E, and K, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in your body and support a healthy immune system. Microgreens are easy to grow at home, giving you a fresh and sustainable source of vegetables all year round, without having to rely on the season.

How do you use microgreens?

Microgreens are very versatile and can be incorporated into your dishes in a variety of ways. Here are some simple ideas:

• As a topping : Add a handful of microgreens to salads, sandwiches, wraps or soup for extra flavor and crunch.
• In smoothies : Mix a small handful of microgreens into your morning smoothie for a nutrient boost.
• In cooking : Use microgreens as a garnish for hot dishes such as pasta, pizza or omelette. Their flavour is preserved and gives a fresh accent.

Conclusion

Microgreens are a great way to enrich your diet with flavorful, nutritious vegetables that are easy to grow at home. Whether you’re just getting into microgreens or are looking for a new way to add healthy nutrition to your meals, microgreens offer a world of possibilities. Stay tuned for future posts where we’ll dive deeper into topics like how to grow your own microgreens and the health benefits they provide!