There’s no feeling like growing your own food and then getting to sit down and eat it. That feeling is carnal and ancient; our ability to do this is part of what makes us human. This is why we get such a rush when we walk into our kitchens to check on our sprouting jars and see those very first signs of growth. In that moment, the realization that we have the power to create life strikes us like lightning.

The miracle of life aside, sprouts are a powerhouse food. They aid the body in digestion, increase fiber content and protein availability, and they’re excellent for skin and hair. Their essential fatty acid content aids in fat-burning and their minerals improve body chemistry balance. Sprouts nourish us with a myriad of vitamins and nutrients and some sprout varieties even produce a cancer-fighting compound called isothiocyanate when consumed, and research by the American Chemical Society suggests that these compounds are the most potent when untreated. What better way to ensure their strength than by growing them in your very own kitchen? Not only are they healthy, but sprouts are also incredibly versatile. Here are 11 ways to incorporate sprouts into your cooking.

One of the greatest things about sprouts is that they’re so easy to get your hands on. They’re the ultimate superfood because they are so simple and straightforward, and growing them at home means you can be confident in their quality and lack of chemicals. Sprouted foods have a massive array of applications; this list is just the tip of the iceberg. And don’t be afraid to experiment because, after all, you can always grow more!

Devon Lukasiewicz

Writer and Sprouting Enthusiast

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Devon is a freelance writer and traveler. After graduating from Occidental College in 2017, she embarked on an indefinite world tour to, you know, “find herself.” Currently in Australia, she spends her time working, surfing, and getting beat up at her local MMA gym.