How to pull the rungs yourself

Preparations

For three cups of sprouted sprouts, you will need one cup of rye seeds. Soak the grains in cold tap water at twelve to 18 degrees for at least three hours. The temperatures should not be higher, otherwise undesirable fermentation processes will take place. It is important that you change the water every hour. Otherwise the germination systems suffocate in the dissolving organic acids and lose their ability to germinate.

germination

Wash the swollen seeds thoroughly and place them in a germinating jar. A rung tower is suitable for larger quantities. A bowl is enough to get you started. The ideal germination temperatures are between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius. Water the seeds twice a day and allow excess water to drain well. Under these conditions the seeds will germinate within the next two to three days.

Germable seeds

If you want to grow rye sprouts for raw consumption, you can use both rye seeds from the supermarket and organic seeds from health food stores. The germination capacity is ideally 85 percent and can easily be determined yourself:

• Spread 100 grains on damp kitchen paper and keep moist
• Cover with plastic lid for constant moisture
• after four to five days count the grains that have not germinated

Use and shelf life

Rye sprouts have a mild aroma and are characterized by a slight sweetness. They are suitable as an addition to muesli, smoothies and yoghurt or to refine salads and vegetable dishes. They keep in the refrigerator for three to four days. However, the sprouts continue to grow. Once the seedling has reached the length of the seed, the taste changes and takes on a bitter note. You can freeze the sprouts and thaw them as needed. Blanch thawed seedlings before consumption.