All You Need to Know About Broccoli Microgreens and How to Grow Them

What are Broccoli Microgreens?

Broccoli microgreens are tiny versions of mature broccoli plants that are harvested just a few days after the seeds have germinated. They are grown in soil or hydroponically and harvested when they are about 1-3 inches tall, usually after 7-14 days. These little plants are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, folate, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron. They also contain powerful antioxidants, such as sulforaphane and glucosinolates, which have been linked to numerous health benefits.

Compared to mature broccoli plants, the tiny sprouts have a much higher concentration of these nutrients. In fact, some studies suggest that they can contain up to 40 times more nutrients per gram than their mature counterparts. This makes these superfoods an excellent addition to any diet, especially for those looking to increase their intake of vitamins and minerals.

When it comes to taste, broccoli microgreens have a mild, nutty flavor that is reminiscent of broccoli florets. They also have a pleasant crunch, making them a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

In the next section, we will explore the many health benefits that these little vitamin bombs offer. 

Are Broccoli Microgreens healthy?

Broccoli microgreens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your health in many ways. Here are some of the top health benefits of consuming these highly nutritious plants:

1. Rich in nutrients: These superfoods are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and iron. They also contain high levels of sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
2. Boost immunity: Broccoli microgreens contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help boost your immune system and protect against disease.
3. Aid digestion: The fiber in the tiny sprouts can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
4. Support heart health: Broccoli microgreens contain compounds that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
5. Reduce inflammation: The tiny plants contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with many chronic diseases.
6. Improve eye health: The vitamin A in broccoli microgreens can help promote healthy vision and reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases.

By incorporating these nutritious little superfoods into your diet, you can reap the many health benefits they offer. Whether you add them to your favorite dishes or enjoy them on their own, these tiny greens can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.

At ingarden we did our own nutritional analysis. Here you can download the results: Broccoli Nutrient Facts

In the next section, we will discuss the benefits of growing your own broccoli microgreens using an indoor garden kit.

How to grow broccoli microgreens at home?

Growing broccoli microgreens is a simple and rewarding process that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Here are the steps to grow your own superfoods indoors:

1. Choose a growing container: These healthy greens can be grown in a wide variety of containers, such as plastic trays, seedling flats, or even recycled plastic containers. Make sure the container is at least 2 inches deep and has drainage holes at the bottom. You could also use a hydroponic system like ingarden to avoid using soil and overwatering your plants. 
2. Prepare the soil: Fill the container with a sterile seed starting mix or potting soil. Moisten the soil by spraying it with water until it is damp but not soaking wet.
3. Sow the seeds: Scatter the broccoli microgreen seeds evenly over the soil surface. You don't need to cover the seeds with soil, as they need light to germinate.
4. Water the seeds: Use a spray bottle to mist the seeds and soil gently. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the seeds to rot.
5. Cover the container: Place a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap over the container to create a humid environment that helps the seeds germinate. Remove the cover once the seeds have sprouted.
6. Provide light: Place the container in a bright area or under grow lights. Broccoli microgreens need plenty of light to grow well. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can overheat the container.
7. Water regularly: Keep the soil moist by misting it with water daily. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to mold growth.
8. Harvest: Once the broccoli microgreens are 1-3 inches tall, they are ready to harvest. Cut the stems just above the soil surface using scissors or a sharp knife.

Do you need a light source to grow nutritious superfoods at home?

Adequate light is crucial for growing, because it is necessary for photosynthesis, which gives them their green color. While natural sunlight can be used, investing in a grow light may be more convenient. A grow light provides greater control over the amount of light the plants receive, ensuring consistent light exposure for all plants.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a steady supply of fresh and nutritious superfoods.  In the next section, we will discuss how to harvest and store your nutritious superfoods.

How long do Broccoli microgreens take to grow, and when do you need to harvest your Microgreens?

Harvesting your broccoli microgreens is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Check the height: Your greens are ready to harvest when they are about 1-3 inches tall. Check the height and look for the first set of true leaves. Wait until the plants reach a height of 2 to 3 inches, with vibrant green color, and two cotyledon leaves, usually between 7 and 14 days after sowing. Harvesting before the true leaves start forming is important, as this can negatively affect the flavor.
2. Cut the stems: Use a pair of clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut the stems just above the soil surface. Be careful not to damage the other plants as you harvest.
3. Rinse and dry: Rinse the harvested microgreens under cool running water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel.
4. Store the microgreens: Place them in a container or a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator. Your sprouts can be stored for up to 7 days.

To get the most nutritional benefits from your broccoli microgreens, it's best to eat them as soon as possible after harvesting. Try adding them to salads, sandwiches, smoothies, or even omelets for a boost of flavor and nutrition. Read on to explore the many different ways in which you can use your tiny superfoods.

How to Use Broccoli Microgreens

Broccoli microgreens can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are some ways to use broccoli microgreens in your meals:

1. Add to salads: The tiny oval-shaped plants are a great addition to salads, providing a fresh and crunchy texture. You can also add them to your favorite dressing for extra flavor.
2. Top sandwiches: Add the sweet and nutty flavored greens to your sandwiches for a boost of nutrition and taste. They pair well with a variety of fillings, such as turkey, chicken, or avocado.
3. Blend into smoothies: The tiny greens can add a nutritional boost to your morning smoothie. Blend them with your favorite fruits and veggies for a delicious and healthy breakfast.
4. Garnish soups: Sprinkle broccoli microgreens on top of your favorite soup for added texture and flavor. They also add a pop of color to your dish.
5. Use as a pizza topping: Add the superfood to your homemade pizza for a healthy and tasty twist. They pair well with a variety of toppings, such as mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
6. Mix into omelets: Add broccoli microgreens to your morning omelet for a healthy and flavorful breakfast. They also add a nice crunch to your eggs.

By using broccoli microgreens in your meals, you can add a boost of nutrition and flavor to your dishes. Experiment with different ways to use them to find your favorite recipe.

In the next section, we will discuss the benefits of growing your own healthy superfoods using an indoor garden kit.

Conclusion

Broccoli microgreens are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. They are easy to grow at home using an indoor garden kit, and can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and nutrition. By incorporating these mighty greens into your meals, you can reap the many health benefits they offer, including improved digestion, boosted immunity, and reduced inflammation.

If you're interested in growing your own broccoli microgreens, we recommend checking out ingarden’s indoor garden kit. With this kit, you can easily grow fresh and healthy superfoods year-round, right in the comfort of your own home. Not only is it a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's also a great way to ensure you always have access to fresh and nutritious greens.

We hope this guide has been helpful in learning about the benefits of broccoli microgreens, as well as how to grow and use them. With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can enjoy the many benefits of this amazing superfood.