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What are bean sprouts ?

Sprouts are the germinating form of seeds and beans. Sprouts require no soil, only water and cool temperatures for growth, which makes them very easy to produce. A sprout emerges in two to seven days from the seed or bean, depending on the type.

Most common bean sprouts worldwide are mung bean sprouts and alfalfa. Other sprouts include clover, sunflower, broccoli, mustard, radish, garlic, dill, and pumpkin, as well as various other beans, including soy beans.

Sprouts are low in calories and fat and provide substantial amounts of key nutrients, such as vitamin C, folate and fiber, the amounts depending on the species and age of the sprout.

Mung bean sprouts originate from South-East Asia and have been used for thousands of years in the local cuisine.