How to Sprout Brown Lentils (Sabut Masoor Dal)
Turn sabut masoor dal into fresh, nutritious sprouts to use in a variety of healthy homemade recipes.
Materials
- A bowl for soaking
- A large sieve or colander for rinsing and draining
- A clean cotton cloth or mesh cover
- An additional bowl or sprouting container for the resting stage
- Fresh drinking water
- An airtight container lined with a paper towel for storage
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse Thoroughly
- Place one cup of sabut masoor in a bowl or sieve.
- Rinse under running water to remove dust or impurities.
- This first rinse is important because lentils will sit in water for many hours. Rinse until the water is clear.
Step 2: Soak the Lentils
- Transfer the rinsed lentils to a large bowl.
- Add four cups of clean water for one cup of lentils.
- Make sure the water level is high because the lentils will expand during soaking.
- Let them soak for eight to twelve hours or overnight.
- During this time, the lentils will swell and become noticeably softer.
Step 3: Drain and Rinse Again
- After soaking, drain the water completely.
- Rinse the lentils under running water once more.
- Drain thoroughly.
- Excess standing water can cause the lentils to spoil, so they should be moist but not submerged.
Step 4: Set Up for Sprouting
- Place the drained lentils in a sieve with a lid
- Alternatively, you can use a container, cover it with a breathable cloth or a lid that is not airtight.
- Airflow is helpful, but the environment should remain humid.
- Keep the lentils in a warm and dark or semi shaded place such as a cupboard or unused corner of the counter.
Step 5: Sprouting
- Within sixteen to twenty-four hours, you will begin to see small white sprouts emerging.
- The exact timing depends on the temperature of your kitchen.
- Keep them hydrated with a few drops of water.
Step 6: Choose Your Sprout Length
- Check your sprouts every four to five hours.
- Longer sprouts are still edible but have a grassy flavour.
- Once the sprouts reach your preferred length, give them one final rinse and drain completely.
Step 7: Store Properly
- Place the sprouted lentils in an airtight container lined with a dry paper towel.
- Refrigerate for two to three days.
- Use them promptly for freshness.
Video
Notes
- Always drain the lentils thoroughly after rinsing. Excess water encourages spoilage.
- Use clean bowls and utensils to avoid contamination.
- Choose fresh sabut masoor rather than very old stock because older lentils sprout slowly.
- If the lentils develop an unpleasant smell, discard them and begin again.
- Keep the sprouting container in a warm spot but avoid direct sunlight.
