We've talked quite a bit this month about growing things. And if you're like us — a city dweller with no patch of dirt — hatching alfalfa sprouts is easy and gratifying. That is, unless you can't find cheese cloth for the top of the jar, like one reader who emailed us.
We give some alternatives, plus full instructions on growing sprouts, below...
We've read instructions that suggest clean panty hose. If you have a pair with a run in them, reuse them! They would work well on an alfalfa jar (or to hold decorated Huevos Haminados while they boil).
Essentially, you need a breathable top that allows you to pour out water after rinsing the seeds, without pouring out the seeds. Other than that, the seeds sprout and grow in the jar, not attached to the cheese cloth. So we suspect you could also hold a small, fine mesh strainer on top of the jar while you pour out the water, then just tap the seeds that stick to it back into the jar. Leave the jar open or cover it with a light cloth.
Here are the full instructions:
Our favorite use for them? A springtime sprouts sandwich.
Any other ideas from alfalfa growers out there?
(All images: Elizabeth Passarella)
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The one I bought at the health food store is just a large mason-type jar with a screen insert on the screw-on lid. Screen, like window screen! I bet you could just cut some to fit inside a regular band top. Every hardware store sells screen mesh.
view Peggasus's profile
I've been sprouting away since your first sprouts post! It's great fun, great food, and my 8 year old is into it and eats the sprouts! I got the cheesecloth at the hardware store. I think you could even use a thin piece of cotton held on with some sturdy rubberbands, just as long as the water can get out.
This week I tried sunflower seeds, which are great!
view SFGail's profile
Sprouting screens!
view oofs's profile
i too cant find cheese cloth anywhere. maybe i just haven't been looking in the right spots. thanks for posting.
view TheVillageVegetable's profile
I use knee high stockings bought specifically for using when I sprout. I just stretch one over the top of my mason jar and screw on the lid. It works wonderfully!
view aislingR's profile
Also, cheesecloth should be available at your grocery store. Look with the general household supplies - I've found it at Publix in the South and Kroger in the North.
view faith's profile
Large gauze bandages from the pharmacy might work as well.
view SFGail's profile