How do you wash foods grown indoors, like microgreens or sprouts?

Question

Growing your own microgreens? Learn the best way to wash these delicate indoor-grown foods to ensure they are clean and safe to eat.

Answer 1

Gently rinse microgreens or sprouts in a bowl of cold water, swishing them around to dislodge any dirt. Drain thoroughly using a colander or salad spinner.

Detailed Explanation:

Washing microgreens and sprouts requires a delicate touch to avoid damaging their fragile structures. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare a Bowl of Cold Water: Fill a clean bowl with cold water. The cold temperature helps to keep the greens crisp and fresh.

2. Submerge and Swish: Gently submerge the microgreens or sprouts in the water. Use your fingers to gently swish them around, loosening any dirt or debris that may be clinging to them.

3. Lift and Inspect: Carefully lift the greens out of the water, leaving any sediment behind. Inspect them for any remaining dirt. If necessary, repeat the swishing process with fresh water.

4. Drain Thoroughly: Transfer the cleaned microgreens or sprouts to a colander or salad spinner. Allow excess water to drain away. If using a salad spinner, spin gently to remove as much water as possible without bruising the delicate leaves.

5. Pat Dry (Optional): For longer storage, you can gently pat the microgreens or sprouts dry with a clean paper towel.

Pro Tip:

Wash microgreens and sprouts just before you plan to use them. Washing them too far in advance can lead to spoilage, as excess moisture encourages bacterial growth. Store washed and dried greens in the refrigerator in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.