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The Aviary
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NEWSLETTER
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Sprouts
by Jamie Garde
This article originally appeared in SQUAWK, the newsletter of the Big Apple Bird Association and is reprinted with permission.
Sprouts are one of the healthiest foods for birds. They are live, growing food, full of vitamins and minerals, without preservatives, inexpensive, and relished by parrots. I've found the easiest beans to sprout are mung beans (used heavily in Asian cooking) and lentils, however any bean or seed which has not been heated can sprout. I purchase a half pound of beans at the health food store and use a teaspoon at a time for sprouting.
Sprout Instructions
Rinse seeds/beans to be sprouted under running water until rinse water is clear (about 90 seconds). Then soak seeds/beans in water for 24 hours. Drain in colander and let sit at room temperature. Every 12 hours rinse seeds/beans in clear water for 1 minute then drain. I keep the sprouts in a jar to retain some moisture. Seeds/beans begin to sprout at about 24 - 48 hours, depending on temperature and variety. Harvest some to feed to birds. Allow to continue sprouting until sprouts are about one inch in length or have developed roots. Sprouts with roots taste bitter. Refrigerate sprouts when they reach one inch to prevent additional growth. Continue to rinse daily. If seeds/beans develops a sour smell, discard and start again.
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