Microgreens have taken the culinary world by storm with their vibrant colours, intense flavours, and impressive nutritional benefits.
These tiny greens, harvested just after the first leaves have developed, have a fascinating history and are surprisingly easy to grow at home.
Here’s a dive into their origins and a guide to cultivating your own microgreens.
The History of Microgreens
Microgreens have been around for longer than you might think. While they might seem like a modern trend, they have roots that stretch back several decades.
1980s: The culinary use of microgreens began in the United States, particularly in high-end restaurants in California. Chefs were drawn to the intense flavours and delicate textures that these tiny plants added to dishes.
1990s: Microgreens gained popularity among chefs and food enthusiasts across the globe. Their aesthetic appeal and concentrated nutrients made them a favourite garnish and ingredient.
2000s to Present: The trend has continued to grow, with home gardeners and urban farmers cultivating microgreens due to their quick growth cycle and minimal space requirements. Today, they are a staple in gourmet kitchens and health-conscious homes alike.
Benefits of Microgreens
Microgreens are not just a pretty addition to your plate; they are packed with nutrients.
Nutrient Density: Studies have shown that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Flavour: Despite their small size, microgreens are bursting with flavour. From the spicy kick of radish microgreens to the sweet taste of pea shoots, they can enhance any dish.
Versatility: Use them in salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and as garnishes. They are a versatile addition to any meal.
How to Grow Microgreens at Home
Growing microgreens at home is a straightforward process that doesn’t require a garden or extensive gardening experience. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
Seeds: Choose from a variety of seeds such as radish, broccoli, sunflower, pea, and basil. Make sure to buy seeds specifically labelled for microgreens.
Growing Trays: Shallow trays with drainage holes are ideal. You can also repurpose plastic containers.
Soil or Growing Medium: Use a high-quality potting mix or a specialised microgreens growing medium.
Spray Bottle: For watering your microgreens gently.
2. Planting Your Microgreens:
Prepare the Trays: Fill your trays with about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil or growing medium. Smooth the surface but avoid compacting it.
Sow the Seeds: Scatter the seeds evenly over the soil surface. Aim for a dense coverage but avoid overlapping seeds too much.
Cover the Seeds: Lightly press the seeds into the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil or simply leave them uncovered, depending on the seed type.
Watering: Use a spray bottle to moisten the soil thoroughly. Ensure the soil is damp but not waterlogged.
3. Growing Conditions:
Light: Place the trays in a bright location with indirect sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, consider using a grow light.
Temperature: Microgreens grow best in temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F).
Humidity: Cover the trays with a plastic lid or cling film to retain humidity until the seeds germinate.
4. Care and Maintenance:
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist by misting with a spray bottle. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to mould growth.
Ventilation: Once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover to improve air circulation and prevent mould.
5. Harvesting Your Microgreens:
Timing: Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 7-14 days, once they have developed their first set of true leaves.
Harvesting: Use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Harvest only what you need, leaving the rest to continue growing.
6. Using Your Microgreens:
Storage: Freshly harvested microgreens can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Keep them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Culinary Uses: Add microgreens to salads, sandwiches, and soups, or use them as a garnish to elevate your dishes.
Final Thoughts
Growing microgreens at home is a rewarding and easy way to add a burst of nutrition and flavour to your meals. With their rich history and simple cultivation process, microgreens are a fantastic addition to any kitchen garden. Give it a go and enjoy the delightful freshness of home-grown microgreens!