Looking for a delicious and nutrient-packed addition to your salads, sandwiches, or smoothies?
Look no further than fava bean microgreens!
We all know that microgreens can look tiny and insignificant especially when compared with other plants.
But don’t let that fool ya!
These little plants are bursting with flavor and are packed with vitamins and minerals that your body craves.
Plus, they’re easy to grow and can be harvested in just a few days.
If you would like to know just how to grow fava bean microgreens in your backyard, read on to find out more!
Fava Bean Microgreens Profile
Fava bean, also known as broad bean, is a cool-season legume native to the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia.
It’s actually an annual plant that grows up to 3-4 feet tall and produces pods that contain 2-5 large beans each.
Fava beans are highly nutritious, containing protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. They are also an excellent source of folate, which is essential for pregnant women.
Fava beans prefer well-draining soil and cool temperatures, making them ideal for planting in the early spring or fall. They are also tolerant of frost, making them a great choice for gardeners in colder regions.
Fava beans are often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and can be boiled, steamed, roasted, or pureed. They are also a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan recipes due to their high protein content.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, consider adding fava beans to your garden and enjoy their delicious and nutritious benefits!
Growing Fava Bean Microgreens at Home
Growing microgreens at home is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy fresh, nutrient-packed greens year-round. Microgreens are easy to grow, require minimal space, and can be ready to harvest in just a few weeks.
Let’s find out just how we can grow fava bean microgreens for some added taste to your recipes.
Equipment for Growing Fava Bean Microgreens
Growing fava bean microgreens at home require minimal equipment, making it an easy and affordable way to enjoy fresh greens. Here are the essential items you’ll need to get started:
Shallow container
Use a container that is at least 2 inches deep and has drainage holes. Plastic trays or seedling flats work well.
Potting soil
Choose a high-quality potting mix that is lightweight, sterile, and free of pests and diseases.
Fava bean seeds
Purchase seeds from a reputable supplier that are specifically labeled for microgreens.
Watering can or spray bottle
Use a watering can with a fine nozzle or a spray bottle to water the seeds gently.
Grow light
Fava bean microgreens need plenty of light to grow, so a grow light or a sunny windowsill is essential.
Optional equipment
Heat mat: Fava beans prefer cool temperatures, but a heat mat can help speed up germination and growth.
Humidity dome: A clear plastic cover can help retain moisture and create a humid environment for the seeds to germinate.
Soaking Fava Bean Seeds
When growing microgreens, not all seeds need to be soaked to make the germination process easier.
However, fava beans are a bit on the tough side, so soaking them for a while will help us a lot!
This will help to break down their hard outer shell and jumpstart the germination process.
Start by measuring out the desired amount of fava bean seeds and place them in a clean, wide-mouthed container. You can then cover the seeds with 2-3 inches of room-temperature water. Make sure the water is clean and free of impurities.
Allow the seeds to soak for 12-24 hours. During this time, the seeds will absorb water and begin to swell.
After the soaking period is over, drain the water from the container and rinse the seeds thoroughly with clean water. Be sure to remove any floating seeds, as they may not be viable.
Planting Your Seeds
Planting fava bean seeds is an exciting and straightforward process that can yield delicious and nutritious microgreens in just a few weeks.
Choose a shallow container that is at least 2 inches deep with drainage holes as this is best for growing fava bean microgreens. A plastic tray or seedling flat works well. For your soil matter, use a high-quality potting mix that is lightweight, sterile, and free of pests and diseases. Fill the container with soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Sprinkle your presoaked fava bean seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Use a fine-mesh sieve to distribute the seeds evenly if desired. Aim for a dense, even coverage of seeds.
Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. This will help to protect them and promote germination.
Growing Favabean Microgreens
After soaking these babies for 3-4 days, they’ll start germinating under the tray.
Keep them in a moderately warm and humid environment with a temperature of around 70°F and a humidity level of 60-70%. When watering, make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. A gentle spray bottle or watering can will do the trick without harming the delicate seedlings.
Fava bean microgreens need plenty of light, so place them on a sunny windowsill or under a grow light for at least 6-8 hours a day.
After 10-14 days, your microgreens will be ready to harvest.
Harvesting Favabean Microgreens
When the microgreens have reached a height of around 2-3 inches, they are ready to be harvested. To begin, make sure your hands are clean and dry to avoid damaging the delicate leaves. Then, use a pair of sharp scissors or a clean knife to cut the stems just above the soil line.
When harvesting, it’s important to avoid pulling or yanking the microgreens, as this can damage the roots and soil. Instead, use a smooth, gentle cutting motion to cleanly remove the stems. Once harvested, the microgreens can be rinsed under cool water and dried gently with a paper towel or clean cloth.
It’s important to note that fava bean microgreens have a relatively short shelf life and should be used within a few days of harvest. To prolong their freshness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally with a damp paper towel or cloth to help maintain their moisture. Drying your microgreens is another way to help them last longer.
When using fava bean microgreens in dishes, it’s best to add them at the last minute to preserve their delicate flavor and texture. They make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and more, adding a fresh and nutty flavor to any dish.
FAQ About Fava Bean Microgreens
What are the health benefits of fava microgreens?
As mentioned already, fava bean microgreens are packed with nutrients that can provide a range of health benefits.
They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C, which can support a healthy immune system and promote healthy skin, hair, and eyes. Fava bean microgreens also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help protect against chronic diseases and reduce inflammation in the body.
Moreover, studies suggest that fava beans and their sprouts may have cholesterol-lowering properties, making them a heart-healthy food. They also have a low glycemic index, which means they don’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making them a good option for people with diabetes.
Fava bean microgreens are also a good source of minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, while magnesium and potassium are important for maintaining healthy nerve and muscle function.
Can you eat fava bean sprouts?
Yes, fava bean sprouts are edible and can be a tasty addition to a variety of dishes. However, it’s important to note that sprouts carry a risk of foodborne illness, especially if they are not properly handled and stored. It’s recommended to purchase fava bean sprouts from a reputable source or to grow them at home under hygienic conditions to ensure safety.
How long do fava beans take to grow?
Fava beans typically take between 80 and 100 days to reach maturity and produce pods that can be harvested. However, if you are growing fava bean microgreens, they can be harvested in as little as 10-14 days.
The exact time it takes for fava beans to grow can depend on various factors, such as the specific variety of fava bean, growing conditions, and climate.
Grow Fava Bean Microgreens at Home
As you can see, growing fava bean microgreens at home is a simple process that just about anyone can do!
These can provide you with fresh and nutrient-packed greens for a variety of culinary uses.
Just follow the specific guidelines for soaking, planting, growing, and harvesting fava bean microgreens, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy addition to your meals in just a couple of weeks.
Fava bean microgreens are not only easy to grow, but they are also rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a great choice for anyone looking to boost their overall health and wellness.
With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh and delicious fava bean microgreens right from your own kitchen
