which sprouts are high in protein - #39450
I am really trying to up my protein intake lately and been thinking about which sprouts are high in protein to add to my meals. Just last week, I started this new workout regime and my nutritionist suggested incorporating more plant-based protein sources. I’m feeling quite lost, honestly. I’ve read a bit about sprouts, like mung bean and alfalfa, but not sure exactly how they stack up against each other in terms of protein content. I’ve seen some folks saying lentil sprouts are great too, but like, does anyone have actual numbers? I also wonder, are there any particular ones that taste better in salads or stir-fries? Last time I made a salad with alfalfa sprouts, it felt kinda bland, but I also don’t want my food tasting like cardboard. I read something on a blog that said broccoli sprouts are the best, but I don't know if that’s just another health fad. 😅 If I want to keep things interesting and nutritious, which sprouts are high in protein, really? Any personal experiences or recipes could totally help too! Just trying to make this work since I'm already feeling overwhelmed with meal preps. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
When it comes to upping your protein intake with sprouts, you’re on a promising path. Mung bean and lentil sprouts are among the top contenders for high-protein sprouts. Mung beans contain about 24 grams of protein per 100 grams, even when sprouted. Lentil sprouts follow closely with approximately 9 grams of protein per cup when sprouted, so you’re right in thinking they’re quite beneficial.
Alfalfa sprouts, while nutritious, are a bit lower in protein, roughly around 1.3 grams per 100 grams. Still, they’re nutrient-dense in other ways! Don’t discount them completely—they add texture and freshness to dishes but admittedly might not satisfy your protein needs alone. For taste, mung bean and lentil sprouts generally have a heartier flavor. They do quite well in curries and stir-fries, so they might add some depth to your meals. Consider steaming them slightly before adding them to a stir-fry to enhance their flavor and texture.
Broccoli sprouts, while trendy, aren’t a protein powerhouse, but they offer other health benefits due to sulforaphane, a compound with potential cancer-fighting properties. They’re mighty, not for protein, but for their antioxidant value.
For meals, mix sprouted mung beans or lentils into a quinoa salad with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and dress with olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of black pepper and cumin. This increases protein content while keeping it tasty. Alternatively, a quick sauté with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil bring out flavors that pair well with the robust nature of mung bean and lentil sprouts.
Balancing excitement in your meals can also come from using spices and herbs to enrich flavor profiles. If you’re prepping meals at the start of your week, consider varying the sprouts each day or mixing them with your other protein sources for optimal variety. Keep in mind, though while sprouted forms, protein amounts might slightly change. Enjoy your culinary adventure into the world of sprouts!

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