Microgreens: Nutrition, Benefits, and Growing Kit
Previous PostAre you looking for a simple and rewarding way to introduce fresh, nutrient-packed greens into your daily diet? Look no further than the microgreens, nature's miniature powerhouses of flavour and nutrition.
Microgreens are not only delicious and visually appealing but also incredibly easy to grow at home. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the world of microgreens, starting with their origins and nutritional value. We'll also explore the numerous health benefits they offer and why cultivating your own microgreens at home beats buying them from the store. To make things even more exciting, we'll introduce you to AllThatGrows' Complete Microgreens Growing Kit, designed to help you embark on your microgreens adventure hassle-free.
The Origin of Microgreens
You might be witnessing a sudden trend of restaurants and premium grocery stores embracing microgreens these days, but they have been around for quite some time. These tiny, vibrant greens originated in the culinary world in the 1980s in San Francisco and have been a favourite among chefs for their delicate flavours and stunning appearances. They were first popularized in gourmet restaurants and eventually found their way into mainstream cuisine.
Microgreens are essentially young seedlings of vegetables and herbs, harvested at a very early stage, usually when they have developed their first true leaves. This early harvest results in intensely flavorful and nutrient-rich greens, making them a versatile addition to a variety of dishes.
Nutritional Value of Common Microgreens
The appeal of microgreens doesn't stop at their taste and aesthetics – they are also a nutritional powerhouse. Below is a chart highlighting the nutritional content of common microgreens per 100 grams:
| Microgreen | Species | Nitrates | Sodium | Potassium | Calcium | Phosphorus | Magnesium | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arugula | Eruca sativa Mill. | 305 | 8.8 | 301 | 116 | 13.2 | 30.5 | |
| Green Basil | Ocinum basilicum L. | 429 | 11.9 | 299 | 107 | 13.2 | 26.9 | |
| Red Basil | Ocinum basilicum L. | 462 | 8.3 | 289 | 105 | 14 | 26.8 | |
| Brassica Raab | Brassica rapa L., Broccoletto group | 355 | 9.8 | 230 | 114 | 18.4 | 28.8 | |
| Broccoli | Brassica oleracea L. var. italica | 267 | 8.4 | 255 | 126 | 20.1 | 28.7 | |
| Red Cabbage | Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata | 368 | 8.2 | 167 | 126 | 32.6 | 32.1 | |
| Mizuna | Brassica rapa L. var. nipponsinica | 400 | 6.6 | 256 | 96 | 17 | 24.1 | |
| Red Mustard | Brassica juncea L. Czem. | 405 | 14.6 | 383 | 116 | 17 | 31.4 | |
| Pea Tendrils | Pisum sativum L. | 127 | 7.9 | 436 | 106 | 54.4 | 26.4 | |
| Green Radish | Raphanus sativus L. | 226 | 8.2 | 189 | 76 | 25 | 23.8 | |
| mg/100 gms of fresh produce | ||||||||
Source:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305175608_The_nutritional_properties_of_microgreens
These figures are a testament to the exceptional nutritional profile of microgreens, showcasing their rich vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content. Including these tiny greens in your meals can significantly boost your overall health.
Health Benefits of Microgreens
The consumption of microgreens comes with a number of health benefits, including:
- Enhanced Nutrient Intake: Microgreens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, providing a convenient way to increase your daily nutrient intake.
- Improved Digestion: Their high fibre content aids in digestion and contributes to a healthy gut.
- Immune Support: The abundance of antioxidants strengthens your immune system and helps protect your body from oxidative stress.
- Weight Management: The low-calorie nature of microgreens can be a valuable addition to your weight management plan.
- Skin Health: The vitamins and antioxidants present in microgreens can promote healthy, radiant skin.
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Regular consumption of microgreens has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Why Grow Microgreens at Home?
While you can find microgreens at local stores, growing them at home has several advantages:
- Freshness: Homegrown microgreens are as fresh as they get, ensuring you enjoy the highest quality and flavour.
- Cost-Effective: Growing microgreens at home is an economical option, saving you money in the long run.
- Customization: You can choose the microgreens you want to grow, allowing for a personalized mix of flavours and nutrients.
- Sustainability: Home cultivation reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and packaging.
- Educational: Growing microgreens is an engaging and educational activity for the entire family.
Complete Microgreens Growing Kit for Homegrown Microgreens
To make your microgreen journey even easier, AllThatGrows offers a Complete Microgreens Growing Kit, specially designed to meet the needs of both beginners and experienced gardeners. This kit includes everything you need to cultivate four fantastic varieties of microgreens at home: Radish Sango, Pak Choi, Broccoli, and Wheatgrass.
Each kit contains:
- 4 varieties of non-treated microgreen seeds
- 4 reusable seed trays
- Coir growing medium
- Organic Vermicompost
- Growing instructions
- Seaweed extract
With this kit, you'll have all the supplies required to start growing your microgreens in no time. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a complete novice, AllThatGrows has your back on your microgreens journey.
Microgreens are a delightful addition to your diet, offering incredible flavour, nutrition, and numerous health benefits. Growing your microgreens at home with our Complete Microgreens Growing Kit ensures that you enjoy the freshest and most flavorful greens, all while contributing to a sustainable and healthier lifestyle. So, why wait? Start on your microgreens adventure today and experience the joy of cultivating and consuming your own nutrient-rich, homegrown greens.
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