Carrot

Carrot Seeds

Carrot seeds are small, oval-shaped seeds used primarily for growing carrot plants. When sprouted, they produce tender, crunchy microgreens with a mild carrot flavor and a slightly peppery, fresh taste. Carrot sprouts are popular in salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.

History of the Seed

Carrots originated in Central Asia over 1,000 years ago. Originally cultivated for their aromatic leaves and seeds rather than the root, carrot seeds have been used in traditional medicine and cooking throughout history. Sprouting carrot seeds is a more recent practice, gaining popularity among health enthusiasts for their nutrient-rich sprouts.

Nutritional Information

Carrot sprouts are rich in:

  • Vitamins: A, C, K
  • Minerals: Potassium, Calcium, Iron
  • Antioxidants: Beta-carotene, lutein
  • Fiber and enzymes beneficial for digestion

Nutrition Benefits

  • Supports eye health through vitamin A and beta-carotene
  • Boosts immune function with vitamin C
  • Promotes bone health due to vitamin K and calcium content
  • Provides antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress

Sprouting Process and Directions

  1. Soak: Place carrot seeds in a jar or sprouting tray with water.
  2. Rinse: Drain and rinse seeds twice daily to prevent mold.
  3. Grow: Keep seeds in indirect light at room temperature, maintaining moisture without waterlogging.
  4. Harvest: Ready to eat when sprouts reach 1-2 inches with green shoots.

Soak Time

Soak carrot seeds for 6 to 8 hours to soften the seed coat and start germination.

Rinse Time

Rinse the seeds twice daily (morning and evening) to keep them moist and reduce bacteria growth.

Growing Time

Carrot sprouts typically take 4 to 7 days to grow from soaked seeds to harvestable sprouts.

Harvest Time

Harvest sprouts when they are about 1 to 2 inches long with visible green leaves, usually around day 5 to 7.

Yield

From 1 tablespoon of carrot seeds, you can expect approximately 1 to 1.5 cups of fresh sprouts.

Days to Sprout

Carrot seeds generally begin sprouting within 2 to 3 days after soaking.

Best Growing Methods

  • Use a sprouting jar or tray with good drainage
  • Keep seeds evenly moist but not soaked after initial soaking
  • Maintain a temperature around 65–75°F (18–24°C)
  • Provide indirect light after the first few days for green growth

Storage

Store fresh carrot sprouts in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Use within 3 to 5 days for best freshness and nutrition.

Using the Ready Sprouts

  • Add raw to salads for crunch and flavor
  • Use as sandwich toppings
  • Mix into smoothies or juices for extra nutrients
  • Garnish soups or cooked dishes after cooking

Helpful Tips

  • Avoid over-soaking seeds to prevent mold.
  • Rinse thoroughly and drain well.
  • Use filtered water for rinsing.
  • If sprouts smell off or slimy, discard immediately.

Did You Know?

Carrot seed oil, derived from the same seeds used for sprouting, is prized in skincare for its rejuvenating properties. Sprouted carrot seeds contain enzymes that can aid digestion better than mature carrots.