Sprouting split peas

Split peas can be sprouted, like most legumes and pulses that are commonplace in the pantry. Why limit yourself to sprouting commercial seeds when there’s a whole world of sprouting out there! (That said, broccoli seeds are great too…)

Digestibility

Basically, sprouting – or germination – makes food more digestible.

Soaking reduces the phytic acid that interferes with mineral absorption and is a barrier to enzyme activity. That is the first phase in a three-phase process: imbibition (the rapid water uptake when the grains or pulses are soaked in water); activation (the incubation period depending on type and variation); and finally seed growth.

I promise you, if you give it a go, you’ll see that Sprouting is Worth It!

Equipment

The process is really simple; you don’t need lots of equipment either. Just a glass jar (I have a pair of 1000 ml wide-necked Mason jars) with a germination (mesh) lid. However, if you don’t want to go to the expense of buying special jars or lids before knowing whether this is something for you, any glass jar will do – just cover the mouth with a piece of cheesecloth, held in place with a rubber band. If you do decide to make this a regular thing, the wide-necked Mason jars are probably the way to go. They allow the water to get out and the air to get in so that the sprouts can breathe.

Method

So, here’s what to do to add this cheap and nourishing ingredient to your dog’s diet (and your own).

Put the desired amount of split peas into the jar; after experimenting, I find that filling the jar approximately one-third full third is a good rule of thumb. Bear in mind that you need to leave enough room for the peas when they are sprouted – they will increase to approximately double the size.

Starting the process of sprouting split peas and yellow peas (dried)

Starting the process of sprouting split peas and yellow peas (dried)

Screw the lids on firmly. Add water, rinse the peas and drain. Refill, this time allowing the peas to soak in the water for approximately 12 hours. This starts the sprouting process.

After the initial soaking period, drain the water, rinse the peas, and tilt the jar at an angle to drain excess water. This process should be repeated twice a day until the peas have sprouted, making sure that water is drained thoroughly each time and then positioning the jar at an angle. My yellow split peas shown above had reached this stage after five days.

The jar should be kept at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and always kept at an angle to ensure that all excess water is drained.

When the sprouts completed, rinse the final time and then spread them out on a clean cloth or tea towel to dry for a while. Then store in the refrigerator in dry containers (don’t squash – if there is enough room, use two containers).

sprouted split yellow and green dried peas

 

For dog consumption, steam the sprouted peas for around 15 minutes if they are not going to be cooked. Allow to cool and keep in refrigerator.

You’ll find they’re not only great for toppings but also versatile for your own recipes as well: try adding them to salads, or in an Indian dahl (see this Care and Share recipe).

 

Enjoy!

 

 

Important Considerations:

  • Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
  • As some commercial foods contain grain as an ingredient, check the label to see whether it’s in your dog’s food before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
  • Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
  • Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
  • I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
  • Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.