Lentil microgreens are a wonderful addition to any diet due to their exceptional nutritional value and versatility.
These tiny sprouts are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent source of nourishment for the body.
One of the greatest benefits of lentil microgreens is their high protein content.
Would you like to know how to grow lentil microgreens at home?
It doesn’t matter if you’re new to gardening because it’s so simple to get started.
If you’d like some healthy greens to add to your diet, read on to find out more about growing lentil microgreens easily!
Lentil Microgreens Profile
Lentil microgreens are small, tender seedlings of the lentil plant, scientifically known as Lens culinaris. They are one of the most popular microgreens due to their nutritional value, mild flavor, and versatility in culinary applications.
Nutritionally, lentil microgreens are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium. They are also high in antioxidants and dietary fiber, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
What’s great is that they have a mild, nutty taste that can add a fresh, slightly sweet flavor to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. They are often used as a garnish, but can also be blended into smoothies or added to soups and stews for extra nutrition.
Equipment for Growing Lentil Microgreens
Once you’re ready to grow your microgreens, there is some basic equipment you’ll need.
Tray or container: You can use a shallow tray or container to grow your lentil microgreens. It should be at least 2-3 inches deep and have drainage holes at the bottom.
Soil: Use a high-quality potting soil or a seed starting mix that is free of any contaminants and has good drainage.
Lentil seeds: You can purchase lentil seeds from a local garden center or online. Make sure they are organic and suitable for microgreen production.
Water: You’ll need to water your lentil microgreens regularly, so make sure you have a watering can or spray bottle.
Light source: Lentil microgreens require plenty of light to grow properly. You can use a grow light or place your tray in a sunny location such as a windowsill.
Humidity dome (optional): A humidity dome can help to retain moisture and create a more humid environment, which can promote faster and more consistent growth.
How to Grow Lentil Microgreens at Home
Soaking lentil microgreens before planting can help to improve germination rates and promote more robust growth.
The soaking process will involve placing the lentil seeds in water for a certain period of time to soften the outer seed coat and activate the germination process.
Start off by rinsing the lentil seeds thoroughly with clean water to remove any debris or dirt. Then, place the seeds in a container and cover them with water.
The water should be at room temperature and the seeds should be fully submerged.
The soaking time can vary depending on the size and type of lentil seeds. Generally, smaller seeds require less soaking time than larger seeds.
As a general rule, you can soak lentil seeds for 6-8 hours or overnight. You can also try soaking them for shorter or longer periods to see what works best for your specific seeds.
After soaking, drain off the water and rinse the lentil seeds again with clean water.
Then, spread the seeds out in a single layer on a damp paper towel or seed tray. Cover them with another damp paper towel or humidity dome to create a moist environment and promote germination.
Planting Lentil Microgreens
It’s best to choose a shallow tray or container that is at least 2-3 inches deep and has drainage holes at the bottom.
Fill the tray with a high-quality potting soil or seed starting mix that is free of any contaminants and has good drainage.
Follow up by scattering the lentil seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. You don’t need to bury the seeds, but you can lightly press them into the soil to ensure good contact.
Water the seeds gently to moisten the soil, taking care not to displace the seeds. You can use a watering can or spray bottle to water the seeds. This way your soil or
It’s important that you cover the tray with a humidity dome or another tray to create a humid environment and promote germination. Keep the tray in a warm, well-lit location, but out of direct sunlight.
Growing Your Microgreens
After planting lentil microgreen seeds, it can be exciting to see the first signs of growth as the seeds start to sprout. Once the seeds have sprouted, it’s time to remove the cover and move the tray to a sunny location or under a grow light to continue growing.
As the lentil microgreens continue to grow, they will develop their first set of true leaves, which are the second set of leaves that emerge after the initial cotyledon leaves.
These leaves will start to look more like the mature lentil plant and will begin to photosynthesize, allowing the plant to produce its own energy from sunlight.
It’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this time, as too much water can cause the seeds to rot. You can water the microgreens using a spray bottle or watering can, being careful not to disturb the delicate seedlings.
Harvesting Lentil Microgreens
Fortunately, lentil microgreens are typically ready to harvest after 3-4 days, depending on the growing conditions.
They should have reached a height of 1-2 inches and have several sets of true leaves. You can check the microgreens regularly to monitor their growth and determine when they are ready to harvest.
Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Take care not to damage the roots or soil. You can cut as much or as little as you need, depending on your intended use.
Rinse the microgreens thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a colander or strainer to make this process easier.
Once rinsed, your lentil microgreens are ready to use in your favorite recipes. They have a mild, nutty flavor and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. They are packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and vitamins A and C, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Storing Your Lentil Microgreens
Lentil microgreens are delicate and need to be stored carefully to ensure their freshness and quality.
Here are some of the best ways to store lentil microgreens:
Refrigeration
The most common way to store lentil microgreens is to refrigerate them. Place the microgreens in a resealable plastic bag, wrap it with a paper towel, and store them in the refrigerator. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture, which can cause the microgreens to spoil quickly.
Container with lid
Another way to store lentil microgreens is to use a container with a lid. This will help to keep the microgreens fresh and prevent them from drying out. Place a damp paper towel in the container to help retain moisture, but make sure that the towel is not too wet as it can cause the microgreens to rot.
Mason jars
Mason jars are another great option for storing lentil microgreens. Simply place the microgreens in a mason jar, cover the jar with a lid, and store it in the refrigerator. You can also place a piece of paper towel in the jar to absorb any excess moisture.
Vacuum-sealed bags
If you have a vacuum sealer, you can use it to store lentil microgreens. Vacuum-sealed bags will help to keep the microgreens fresh for a longer period of time by removing excess air and moisture. Drying your lentil microgreens is also another great option – plus, they’ll last longer!
Other Microgreens for Gardeners:
Grow your Lentil Microgreens at Home
Growing lentil microgreens is not only a healthy and nutritious activity but also a fun and exciting one!
With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh and flavorful lentil microgreens right in your own home. Whether you choose to grow them in soil or hydroponically, the process is easy and rewarding.
Plus, the vibrant green color and delicious taste of lentil microgreens will add a touch of freshness and flavor to any dish, from salads to sandwiches and beyond. So why not give it a try and join the fun of growing your own lentil microgreens?
