Fenugreek sprouts are the shoots of the trigonella foenum-graecum plant. This herb is purported have many health benefits. It contains many vitamins and nutrients including vitamin C, iron, calcium, and protein. It can be eaten alone or as a seasoning in a variety of dishes.
The majority of the world’s fenugreek plants are grown in India. These sprouts are complemented by many Indian spices such as cumin or curry powder. The sprouts can be used as greens in a salad along with other vegetables and greens. It can also act as a tasty topping on a sandwich, or sprinkled over rice. Fenugreek sprouts have a distinctly bitter taste. This can be counteracted with flavors like garlic
Fenugreek is used as an ingredient in several international dishes. It can be found in the Arabian dish saltah, the Afghan dish sholeh holba, and ghormeh sabzi, an Iranian specialty.
One of the best known benefits of fenugreek sprouts is their ability to increase the milk supply of breastfeeding women. While this herb is widely used by postpartum women, it should not be eaten by anyone who is pregnant. It should only be used to increase milk supply after one has given birth. Women who choose to use fenugreek as way to treat problems with their milk supply should consult their doctors to ensure safety of use.
These sprouts may have a whole host of other health benefits as well. It is believed to cleanse the blood and lymph nodes. Through these actions, it is said to strengthen the overall immune system, making the individual more resistant to diseases.
Many symptoms of the common cold such as sore throat, runny nose, and congestion may respond favorably to the addition of fenugreek sprouts in the diet. Other respiratory conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, and emphysema are purportedly eased by fenugreek as well.
Fenugreek can be sprouted easily at home by anyone in possession of the seeds of this plant. The best condition for sprouting these seeds is a moist environment with a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). The seeds will sprout in four to six days and can be stored for three to four weeks.
The sprouts are not the only part of the fenugreek plant that is commonly eaten. Fenugreek seeds may also be used in a variety of recipes. Whole seeds are often used in Indian pickles. The seeds can also be powdered and used a spice for everything from curry powders to butter.