Sprouting is a process of germination of seeds and pulses. When the seeds, pulses, grains are soaked in water, they absorb water, swell in size and produce tiny tail like structure. The seeds/pulses require right moisture and temperature for sprouting. Sprouting increases the nutritional value of seeds/pulses and aids better digestion.
You can sprout most grains, pulses and seeds. Sprouting though is a time intensive process, it is worth the time as sprouts are packed with nutrition.
Germination time varies depending on the seeds/ pulses and also temperature. For eg. Moth beans (matki)Â needs less soaking time, whereas black gram (chana), lima beans (vaal) need to be soaked for a longer period of time.
Today, we will be sprouting horsegram/kulith.  Horsegram is a superfood in its own right and is the richest source of protein for vegetarians. Horsegram is used to make chutney, idli, dosa, salad, stir-fry, curry etc. Sprouting of horsegram further increases its nutritional value.  So, here’s how horsegram is sprouted:
Step-wise instructions with pictures
In a large bowl, add horsegram.
Add water and rinse well
Drain the water. Add more water. Cover the bowl and keep the horsegram soaked for 15 to 18 hours.
Soaking softens the outer covering of the pulses. They absorb water and swell up.
Drain water and transfer the horsegram to a strainer.
Place the strainer on a bowl such that the size of the bowl is smaller than the strainer. By doing this, part of the strainer is exposed to air and there is proper air circulation. Keep this aside for 18 to 20 hours.
After 20 hours, the pulses have produced tiny white tail like structure.
Horsegram sprouts are ready. They can be used to make soup, salad, curry, stir fry etc.
Method
- In a large bowl, add 1 cup of horsegram.
- Add water and rinse it couple of times. Drain the water.
- Add more water and keep it soaked for 15 to 18 hours.
- Soaking will soften the outer layer of the seeds.
- After 18 hours, drain the water and transfer the soaked seeds to a strainer.
- Keep the strainer on a vessel which is smaller in size than the strainer. This helps in proper air circulation as the strainer is exposed to air.
- Cover the strainer with a lid.
- Keep this in a warm place for 18 to 20 hours.
- After 20 hours, the seeds would be germinated.
Note:
- If the seeds/pulses that are soaked have not germinated even after 20 hours, sprinkle some water on the seeds, cover and keep aside for some more time. Ensure proper air circulation.
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