What are microgreens?
Microgreens are the young stage of vegetables you already know, harvested just after the sprout stage when they are the most nutritious. A UMD study showed that at the microgreen stage, they are 4x-4ox more nutritious than the mature greens.
There are many varieties of microgreens; the most common are broccoli, radish, cabbage, kale, arugula, peas, and sunflowers.
In general, microgreens have the flavor of the mature greens, sometimes slightly more intense and always more tender.
How do you use them?
Remember the 5 S's:
- Sandwiches
- Salads
- Smoothies
- Soups
- Stir Fry
You can use microgreens wherever you would use the mature plant, as well as anywhere you want a pop of flavor. Radish goes well on deli-style sandwiches, wraps, and salads for example. Or you can use cilantro microgreens on your tacos as a more nutritional option.
Peas go great in stir fry, while kale and broccoli shine in smoothies. There are many options!
- Your microgreens will come to you unwashed due to food sale laws; I recommend a quick rinse/spray before adding to your meal.
- Avoid cooking your microgreens. Add them to the meal at the end in order to maximize the nutritious value. *There are exceptions.
- The easiest way to use microgreens is to just add them to whatever you are making, or swap the mature version for the microgreens.
- Most microgreens are hyper local, meaning directly from grower to consumer, as they do not ship well due to their tendernes. They will last 7-10 days in the fridge.
How are the microgreens grown?
For maximum nutrition, I grow my microgreens in soil. I sow the seeds in 1020 flats, moisten and stack the trays for a few days to start germination, then place them under a grow light. I grow indoors in a controlled environment for the most consistent results.
What's the difference between sprouts and microgreens?
Microgreens are the stage after sprouts, when the leaves have started emerging. Sprouts are grown in water, and you eat the seed, sprout, and root. Unlike sprouts, microgreens are considered a "safe" food for consumption because they are not grown in a dark, wet environment which provides a greater chance for harmful bacteria.
What nutrients are in microgreens?
Vitamin C, Vit B, Vit K, Vit A, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, Sulfurophane, and more! 4-40x more than the mature plant!
Can I come get a tour of your growing space?
Absolutely! I am always available for questions, and am happy to show you where your microgreens come from. Just contact me in advance!