The culinary world is abuzz with the growing trend of microgreens, those tiny, vibrant seedlings that pack a remarkable flavour punch. Once primarily the domain of high-end restaurants and gourmet chefs, these little greens are now making their way into home kitchens across Australia. Their intense flavours, coupled with a stunning visual appeal, have made them a popular choice for elevating everyday dishes. Whether you’re looking to add a fresh twist to your salads or enhance the presentation of your meals, microgreens offer an exciting avenue for culinary creativity.
As more people become aware of the culinary potential and health benefits of microgreens, they’re rapidly gaining popularity. Their ability to transform a simple dish into something extraordinary while providing a boost of nutrition has captured the attention of food enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters alike.
Flavour Profiles
Each variety of microgreen boasts its own unique flavour profile, making them a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Understanding these flavours can help you choose the right microgreens to complement your dishes perfectly.
1. Pink Stem Radish
- Health Benefits: Pink Stem Radish microgreens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and calcium. They also contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- How to Add to Meals: The peppery, spicy flavour of Pink Stem Radish microgreens makes them a great addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and tacos. You can also sprinkle them on top of soups or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavour.
2. Mild Red Cabbage
- Health Benefits: These microgreens are high in vitamin C, K, and A, and provide fibre, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. They are particularly beneficial for skin health and immune function.
- How to Add to Meals: Mild Red Cabbage microgreens have a subtle cabbage flavour, making them perfect for adding to coleslaw, salads, and stir-fries. They can also be used as a garnish for meats, fish, or in grain bowls.
3. Super Broccoli
- Health Benefits: Super Broccoli microgreens are packed with vitamins C, A, and K, as well as folate and fibre. They contain high levels of sulforaphane, a compound known for its cancer-fighting properties.
- How to Add to Meals: Super Broccoli microgreens can be used raw in salads, added to sandwiches, or tossed into a smoothie. They also pair well with eggs, and can be sprinkled on top of avocado toast or mixed into a stir-fry.
4. Asian Tatsoi
- Health Benefits: Tatsoi is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides essential minerals like calcium and iron. It has a mild, mustardy flavour and is a great source of antioxidants.
- How to Add to Meals: Asian Tatsoi can be used in salads, wraps, and stir-fries. Its flavour makes it a good choice for adding to Asian-inspired dishes like miso soup or sushi rolls. You can also toss it in with grains like rice or quinoa.
5. Pea Shoots
- Health Benefits: Pea Shoots are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fibre. They are a great source of plant-based protein and antioxidants, helping to support immune health and reduce inflammation.
- How to Add to Meals: These microgreens have a fresh, sweet flavour, making them a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies. You can also add them to soups, stir-fries, or use as a garnish for a variety of dishes.
6. Sunflower
- Health Benefits: Sunflower microgreens are high in vitamins A, B, C, and E, and contain a good amount of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein. They support skin health, immune function, and heart health.
- How to Add to Meals: Sunflower microgreens have a mild, nutty flavour and can be added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. They also pair well with avocado and are a great topping for grain bowls or roasted vegetables.
7. Wheatgrass
- Health Benefits: Wheatgrass is packed with chlorophyll, antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. It is known for its detoxifying properties and can help improve digestion and energy levels.
- How to Add to Meals: While wheatgrass is typically consumed in juice form, it can also be blended into smoothies or used as a garnish for salads and bowls. You can also add a small amount to your morning juice for a nutrient boost.
8. Barley Grass
- Health Benefits: Barley Grass is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, calcium, and fibre. It has alkalising properties, supports digestive health, and helps to lower cholesterol levels.
- How to Add to Meals: Barley Grass can be consumed as a powder added to smoothies, juices, or health drinks. Alternatively, fresh barley grass can be used in salads, grain bowls, or blended into soups for extra nutrition.
9. Chickpea
- Health Benefits: Chickpea microgreens are high in plant-based protein, vitamins A, B, and C, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They promote digestive health, improve blood sugar control, and support heart health.
- How to Add to Meals: Chickpea microgreens have a mild, nutty flavour and can be added to salads, sandwiches, wraps, or used as a garnish for soups and curries. They also pair well with hummus or grain-based bowls.
Summary of Uses:
You can incorporate microgreens into almost any meal! They are perfect for:
- Salads: Add a mix of these microgreens for a crunchy, nutritious base.
- Sandwiches & Wraps: Use them as a healthy alternative to traditional greens.
- Smoothies: Blend microgreens like Super Broccoli or Pea Shoots into your favourite smoothie for added nutrients.
- Garnishes: Use them to top off soups, stews, or roasted vegetables.
- Bowls: Toss them into grain bowls with quinoa, rice, or couscous for an added nutrient boost.
By using these microgreens in your meals, you can add vibrant colours, fresh flavours, and an array of health benefits.
Versatility in Cooking
One of the standout features of microgreens is their versatility in both raw and cooked dishes. These tiny greens can be incorporated into a wide range of meals, making them an essential ingredient in any kitchen.
In raw dishes, microgreens can be tossed into salads for added crunch and flavour, used as a garnish for soups, or layered in sandwiches for an extra layer of texture. For cooked dishes, they can be lightly sautéed or steamed, adding a touch of freshness to stir-fries, pasta, and omelettes. Their delicate nature means they only require a brief cooking time, ensuring that their vibrant flavours and nutrients are preserved.
Nutritional Edge
Beyond their flavour, microgreens also offer a nutritional edge that makes them a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their diet. These tiny greens are often packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, sometimes containing up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. This nutritional density means that adding microgreens to your meals can significantly boost their health benefits without piling on calories.
Incorporating microgreens into your diet can encourage healthier eating choices, as their vibrant colours and fresh flavours make meals more appealing. By adding a handful of microgreens to a dish, you can transform a mundane meal into a vibrant, nutritious feast, enticing even the pickiest eaters to enjoy their greens.
Furthermore, the enhanced flavours of microgreens can inspire more creative cooking. With their unique tastes and textures, they encourage exploration and experimentation in the kitchen. You might find yourself trying new combinations or adapting traditional recipes to include these nutritious greens.
Easy Accessibility
One of the great things about microgreens is their increasing availability. You can now find a variety of microgreens in many grocery stores across Australia, making it easy to incorporate them into your meals. Farmers’ markets are also a fantastic source, often featuring locally grown microgreens that are fresh and full of flavour.
For those who want to explore a wider range of options or prefer the convenience of home delivery, our subscription service brings fresh microgreens right at your doorstep. Rotating selection of different varieties is available, so you can experiment with new flavours without the hassle of shopping.
Conclusion
Microgreens are a versatile and flavourful addition to any kitchen, and their growing popularity is a testament to their culinary potential. With a wide range of flavour profiles, they can enhance everything from salads and sandwiches to soups and stir-fries. Their nutritional benefits make them not just a tasty addition but a smart choice for a healthier diet.
We invite you to experiment with different varieties of microgreens to discover your favourites. Whether you prefer the sweet aroma of basil microgreens, the peppery bite of radish microgreens, or the crisp sweetness of pea shoots, there’s a microgreen for every palate. So, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the delicious benefits that these tiny greens can bring to your meals. Embrace the microgreen trend and let your cooking flourish!