As part of my preparedness series, we have been learning about wheat as a staple emergency food item due to its versatility. Today I will show you how to take your wheat and turn it into a vitamin and mineral packed food that could replace fresh produce if it is not available. This same method of sprouting can be used for any grain, seed or even legume. While I am just focusing on the emergency food part of sprouts, they are very nutritious for an everyday addition to your whole foods diet.
Sprouting Grains
There are many sprouting systems available for purchase but technically all you need is a jar and a strainer. I have tried many sprouters through the years and my favorite is Easy Sprout, due to the draining set up and ease of use. I'm just giving basic instructions here as if you only have a jar to work with but you can do a google search and find many ways to sprout with more detailed instructions and videos. I recommend choosing what method will work best for you and then print off instructions for emergency use if you don't plan on including sprouts in your regular diet.
1/2 cup wheat berries or grain of choice
Filtered water
Quart jar
Pour your berries into a jar and cover with filtered water. Let sit overnight and drain and rinse in the morning. Cover with a cheesecloth or breathable cover. Place jar upside down at an angle in a bowl to allow air circulation and continued drainage. If using the Easy Sprout, a strainer cup is nestled in a holder cup so it can just sit upright on the counter. Rinse and drain the grains twice a day, keeping the jar in the same position. Continue this process until you see little "tails" form (see above picture). You could eat them as soon as the tails form or let them go a little longer, your preference. Give them one last rinse and drain well before refrigerating. This process can take anywhere from a day to five days. Mine usually take only a day with the just emerging tails.
Filtered water
Quart jar
Pour your berries into a jar and cover with filtered water. Let sit overnight and drain and rinse in the morning. Cover with a cheesecloth or breathable cover. Place jar upside down at an angle in a bowl to allow air circulation and continued drainage. If using the Easy Sprout, a strainer cup is nestled in a holder cup so it can just sit upright on the counter. Rinse and drain the grains twice a day, keeping the jar in the same position. Continue this process until you see little "tails" form (see above picture). You could eat them as soon as the tails form or let them go a little longer, your preference. Give them one last rinse and drain well before refrigerating. This process can take anywhere from a day to five days. Mine usually take only a day with the just emerging tails.
