Alfalfa seeds come from the Alfalfa plant, which is related to the pea. The alfalfa seed is probably one of the easiest of seeds to sprout, providing a bumper crop of mild, nutty tasting sprouts. They make an ideal accompaniment to snacks alongside hummus (hummous) or avocado.
Alfalfa sprouts are an excellent addition to a weightloss plan as well as part of a normal, healthy diet. It is especially good for those who exercise as it is a complete protein and will support the regeneration of muscle tissue after exertion. The sprouted seed contains good levels of fibre, protein, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Niacin (B3), Calcium and Iron.
Sprouted alfalfa seeds are best eaten raw as their nutrients will quickly be lost during cooking and also their size makes them unsuitable. As heat passes through them, even when sprinkled onto say a hot soup, they immediately begin to shrivel and lose the crunch which makes them so satisfying. A more suitable sprouted seed for cooking (e.g.stir-frying) would be the Mung Bean.
