SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT?
Sprouts, microgreens, baby greens—they're all the same, are they not? Aren't they all baby versions of their mature counterparts?
Well, the answer is yes and no... Yes they are all baby versions of mature plants, but no, they are not the same :-)
Microgreens are an intermediate stage between sprouts and baby greens. To make it more simple, sprouts are 2 to 5-day-old, microgreens are 7 to 14-day-old, and baby greens are 3 to 4-week-old plants.
Still, while they may appear similar at first glance, sprouts and microgreens differ significantly in terms of growth methods, taste, nutrition, and usage.
In this blog, we’ll have a look at sprouts vs. microgreens, discovering all their differences and helping you decide which might be better for your health and culinary needs!
Sprouts vs. Microgreens: a quick recap
Microgreens: Baby vegetable greens grown in soil, rich in nutrients, with intense flavors and vibrant colors.
Sprouts: Germinated seeds grown in water, consumed entirely (seed, root, and stem), and harvested quickly.
Growth Process: Sprouts grow hydroponically in 2-5 days; microgreens grow in soil with sunlight in 7-21 days.
Taste & Appearance: Sprouts are mild and pale; microgreens have bold flavors and bright colors.
Nutrition: Microgreens are nutrient-dense, with up to 40x more nutrients than mature plants; sprouts are high in enzymes and fiber.
Uses: Sprouts are great raw or lightly cooked; microgreens work well as garnishes or in salads and smoothies.
Storage: Sprouts last 1-2 days; microgreens last 5-7 days if stored properly.
Which is Best? Choose sprouts for quick crunch and enzymes, and microgreens for flavor and nutrition.
Keep reading for a deep delve into understanding the differences between sprouts and microgreens!
-v1737969761880.png?1440x2000)
Sprouts vs. Microgreens: Discover the Differences!
-v1737970336332.png?680x2268)
What are Sprouts?
Sprouts are germinated seeds that are typically harvested just a few days after they begin growing. Unlike microgreens, sprouts are grown in water, not soil, and the entire sprout—seed, root, and stem—is eaten.
Common types of sprouts include alfalfa, mung bean, lentil, and broccoli sprouts. They’re popular for their crisp texture and mild flavor and are often used in sandwiches, salads, and stir-fries.
READ MORE: How to grow sprouts, with 12 of the best sprouts to eat
What are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested just after the first true leaves develop (the cotyledon growth stage). They’re grown in soil or a soil substitute which gives the plant nutrients, and are typically between one to three inches tall when harvested. Microgreens come in a wide variety, including arugula, beet, kale, radish, cilantro, basil, and more.
Known for their intense flavors, vibrant colors, and concentrated nutrients, microgreens are often used as garnishes, salad toppings, or to add a burst of flavor to dishes. Unlike sprouts, microgreens require light and space to grow, making their growing process more akin to regular plants.
Growing Method
One of the most notable differences between sprouts and microgreens is how they are grown.
Sprouts: Grown hydroponically in water or in damp conditions, sprouts require a jar, tray, or sprouting kit. Seeds are soaked, rinsed multiple times a day, and left to germinate in a dark or shaded space. They don’t require soil or light.
Microgreens: Grown in soil or a soil substitute like coconut coir, microgreens require sunlight or a grow light like any other plant. Seeds are planted in a shallow container, watered regularly, and harvested by cutting the stems just above the soil.
Growing and Harvest Time
Sprouts and microgreens also differ in the time it takes to grow them.
Sprouts: Sprouts grow quickly, usually ready to harvest within 2–5 days after soaking the seeds. This makes them an excellent option for those seeking fast results.
Microgreens: Microgreens take a bit longer, typically 7–21 days, depending on the variety. While this requires more patience, the result is a more robust plant with developed leaves and a more intense flavor profile.
We love using the Sprout Spout to grow sprouts! Traditional sprouting jars do not have proper airflow, which makes them more prone to mold while limiting the size of your potential harvests. The Sprout Spout is here to change that!
Taste and Appearance
Taste: Sprouts are mild in flavor and crunchy, making them versatile for most dishes. Microgreens, on the other hand, offer a stronger, more distinct flavor that varies depending on the type (e.g., peppery radish or sweet basil).
Appearance: Sprouts have a simple, pale look with visible seeds, stems, and roots. Microgreens, however, are visually striking, with vibrant green leaves and colorful stems, making them popular for garnishing.
Sprouts vs. Microgreens Nutrition
Both sprouts and microgreens are highly nutritious, but they vary in nutrient content.
Sprouts: Rich in enzymes, fiber, protein, and an abundance of stored plant phytochemicals, sprouts are a great option for digestive health and overall vitality. They are also high in antioxidants and vitamins such as C and K.
Microgreens: Microgreens are nutritional powerhouses, with studies suggesting they can contain up to 4 times more nutrients than their mature plant counterparts. They are particularly rich in vitamins (A, C, E, and K), minerals, and polyphenols.
Differences in Uses
Sprouts: Best used raw in salads, sandwiches, or wraps, sprouts are valued for their crunch. They can also be lightly cooked in stirfries or soups.
Microgreens: Microgreens are versatile and used as a garnish, in salads, smoothies, or blended into dips. Their vibrant appearance and strong flavors make them a favorite in gourmet dishes.
Shop Your Seeds Here:
Storing Methods
Sprouts: Sprouts are highly perishable and can quickly become moldy, so they should be consumed within 1-2 days of harvesting. They need to be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Microgreens: Microgreens last longer, typically 5-7 days if stored properly in the fridge. They should be kept dry and in a container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Do Sprouts Turn into Microgreens?
While sprouts and microgreens come from the same seeds, sprouts do not turn into microgreens. They are harvested at an earlier stage of growth. If allowed to continue growing in soil and exposed to light, the same seeds used for sprouts could grow into microgreens.
So Which is Better, Sprouts or Microgreens?
The answer depends on your preferences and needs!
Choose sprouts if you want something that grows quick, adds a crunchy addition to your meals, and are looking for a fiber-rich, enzyme-packed option.
Opt for microgreens if you’re seeking intense flavors, vibrant colors, and a more concentrated nutritional profile.
Both sprouts and microgreens have unique benefits and can complement each other in a balanced diet. Whichever you choose, incorporating these nutrient-dense greens into your meals is a step toward better health!
*Image by youshouldgrow.com
