**Purple Kohlrabi Nutritional Facts:**
Purple kohlrabi, a member of the Brassica family, can be sprouted or grown as microgreens. Here are some key nutritional facts about purple kohlrabi:
- Vitamins and Minerals: Purple kohlrabi is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.
- Fiber: It contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy digestive system.
- Antioxidants: Purple kohlrabi contains antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Low in Calories: Purple kohlrabi is low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
**Health Benefits of Purple Kohlrabi:**
Including purple kohlrabi sprouts or microgreens in your diet can provide several health benefits, including:
- Immune Support: Purple kohlrabi is a good source of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system.
- Bone Health: The high vitamin K content in purple kohlrabi contributes to bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis.
- Heart Health: The combination of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in purple kohlrabi supports heart health and helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Digestive Health: The fiber content aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut by supporting regular bowel movements.
- Anticancer Properties: Purple kohlrabi contains compounds with potential anticancer properties, including glucosinolates and isothiocyanates.
**Purple Kohlrabi Sprouting:**
- Germination Length: Purple kohlrabi seeds typically sprout within 4 to 6 days.
- Optimal Temperature: The ideal temperature for sprouting purple kohlrabi is between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C).
Instructions for sprouting purple kohlrabi:
- Rinse the purple kohlrabi seeds thoroughly under running water.
- Place the seeds in a sprouting tray or a wide-mouthed jar covered with a mesh or cheesecloth. Add enough water to cover the seeds.
- Soak the seeds in water for about 8-12 hours.
- After soaking, drain the water from the tray or jar and rinse the seeds again.
- Tilt the tray or jar at an angle to allow excess water to drain out while still providing airflow.
- Rinse the seeds twice a day, making sure to drain out all excess water.
- Keep the sprouting tray or jar in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
- Continue rinsing and draining the seeds twice a day until they have sprouted and developed small shoots.
- Once the sprouts have reached the desired length (around 1-2 inches), they are ready to be harvested.
- Rinse the sprouts one final time before consuming. Store them in the refrigerator and consume within a few days for the best quality.
**Purple Kohlrabi Microgreens:**
- Germination Length: Purple kohlrabi microgreens typically germinate within 3 to 5 days.
- Optimal Temperature: The ideal temperature for growing purple kohlrabi microgreens is between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C).
Instructions for growing purple kohlrabi microgreens:
- Fill a shallow tray or container with a well-draining growing medium, such as potting soil or coco coir.
- Moisten the growing medium with water, ensuring it is evenly moist but not overly saturated.
- Spread the purple kohlrabi seeds evenly over the surface of the growing medium. Press them gently into the soil without burying them too deep.
- Place the tray in a warm and well-lit area, away from direct sunlight initially.
- Cover the tray with a lid or plastic wrap to create a humid environment for the seeds to germinate.
- After 3-5 days, once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover and move the tray to a well-lit area or provide artificial light using grow lights.
- Water the microgreens regularly, keeping the growing medium moist but not waterlogged.
- After 10-14 days, when the microgreens have reached a height of 2-3 inches and developed their first set of true leaves, they are ready to be harvested.
- Use a pair of clean scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Rinse them gently before consuming or storing in the refrigerator.
Remember to maintain cleanliness and hygiene during the growing process, including using clean equipment, washing hands before handling seeds and sprouts, and regularly sanitizing the growing trays.
