Using Microgreens For Cooking Vegetables
Microgreens for cooking are a relatively new food trend that has been introduced to the American public in large quantities in recent years. Microgreens are tiny, delicious, succulent and refreshing vegetables, grown in clovers that produce a rich yet delicate flavor when eaten. They can be used in just about any entree including soups, salads, pasta dishes, meat dishes and desserts. They are as common in many gardens as tomatoes and can be planted in the same spot as they are in your backyard. Plant them in a variety of locations and reap the amazing benefits they offer.
The production process of microgreens is unlike that of other vegetables or fruits. Most microgreens are actually smaller versions of lettuce, which means they are more closely related to its production cycle than other types of vegetables. Microgreens for cooking are actually lettuce greens that have been cut and are small enough to be eaten right off the plate. This makes them great for increasing the variety of vegetables you can offer at any time of the year. They are easily available at grocery stores and farmer’s markets.
There are several methods to growing microgreens for cooking. One popular method is called transplantation. With this method, the micro green plant is transplanted directly into a garden that already has a lush amount of foliage and green growth. The microgreens are separated from the foliage on the plant and kept in separate pots until they are ready to harvest. Some varieties of the vegetable like kale require direct planting.
Other than being a fresh green alternative to other forms of vegetables, eating microgreens for cooking are an excellent way to get essential nutrients that your body needs. They are high in vitamin C, beta carotene, niacin and iron. These important nutrients are essential to maintaining health and are important for supporting a strong immune system. Microgreens for cooking are a good source of these vitamins. Many of these vegetables are available at your local farm store or online. You can even find them frozen in strips so that you can use them in salads or any kind of food that you would like to create a delicious treat with.
Another way to enjoy the delicious flavor of microgreens for cooking is to dry out the leaves and stems. Drying them allows you to save some of the nutrient value of the microgreen. Simply place them in a pan with very little water until they are completely dry. They will continue to taste delicious until they are used. You can also sprinkle some sugar on the leaves to enhance their flavor further.
If you do not want to roast your microgreens for cooking, you can also buy them in a bag. Simply wash them out and store them in an air-tight container in the fridge. When it comes time to add them to soups, stews, or casseroles, just mix them right in. When you have added the microgreens for foods to your meals, be sure to add plenty of leafy green vegetables as well. Microgreens for food will enhance the flavors in any dish that you cook using them.
There are many health benefits associated with the use of micro greens for cooking. The chlorophyll content in microgreen helps to curb hunger pangs. The chlorophyll found in this vegetable helps to detoxify the body by breaking down fat cells. This will give you energy and help to shed unwanted pounds. The natural fibers on the leaves of the microgreen make it easy for your digestive system to process food as they pass through.
Cooking microgreens for vegetables can be a fun and exciting family activity. The lovely color of the microgreens add delightful accents to any dish you are preparing. Try roasting them over an open fire or using them in a salad. You can also steam them to add flavor to soups and stews. They are a healthy, low fat alternative to traditional vegetables.