How to Sprout Dried Beans at Home

Sprouting dried beans is straightforward and increases nutritional value; however, it takes time. Many different types of beans may be sprouted, although the best beans for sprouting are chickpeas and mung beans. Sprouted beans are an excellent option to add freshness and flavor to any dish.

glass jar
cheesecloth
rubber band
dried beans
water

Instructions

- 1
  Sort through and rinse the dried beans, discarding any that are discolored, moldy or disfigured.
- 2
  Place the beans in a glass jar and add 3 cups of room-temperature water. The ratio of water to beans should be about 3:1. Allow the beans to soak for 8 to 12 hours. Cover the mouth of the jar with a cheesecloth and use a rubber band to secure it.
- 3
  Drain the water after the soak, using the cheesecloth as a strainer, and rinse the beans with fresh water; drain and repeat 2 to 3 times. After the final drain, set the jar at a 45-degree angle, the mouth facing down, to allow any excess water to drain. The beans should remain moist, but not soaking in water. The jar can either be left at a 45-degree angle or placed on its side until the next rinse and drain.
- 4
  Repeat the previous step 3 to 4 times each day until the beans have sprouted. The sprout will be white. For mung beans, let it grow to 2 to 3 inches. For larger beans, sprout only until the white stub appears.
- 5
  Store sprouted beans in the refrigerator.

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