Mung bean sprouts are a delicious, healthy addition to any meal. With only 6 calories per ounce, they are a low-calorie snack option that is also packed with nutrients.
In addition to being low in calories, mung bean sprouts are high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. A one-ounce serving of mung bean sprouts contains 1 gram of protein, 0.6 grams of fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of mung bean sprouts, including their nutritional value, how to cook them, and some delicious recipes to try.
Nutritional Value of Mung Bean Sprouts
Mung bean sprouts are packed with nutrients that are essential for good health. One ounce of mung bean sprouts contains just 6 calories, but provides a host of vitamins and minerals. Mung bean sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C and iron, which are essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. They are also rich in folate, which is important for healthy red blood cells and can help prevent birth defects in pregnant women. Additionally, mung bean sprouts are a good source of potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which all play important roles in maintaining healthy bones and muscle function.
A Low-Calorie Snack Option
If you're looking for a healthy snack option that won't derail your diet, mung bean sprouts are an excellent choice. With just 6 calories per ounce, they are a great way to add some crunch to your diet without adding extra calories. Mung bean sprouts are also low in fat and carbohydrates, making them a good option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. They are a good source of fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer.
How to Cook Mung Bean Sprouts
Mung bean sprouts can be cooked in a variety of ways, making them a versatile ingredient to have in your kitchen. They can be stir-fried, boiled, or added to soups and salads. To prepare mung bean sprouts, rinse them thoroughly under cold water and drain them. They can be eaten raw or cooked. If stir-frying, heat some cooking oil in a pan and add the sprouts, along with any other vegetables or spices you like. Cook for a few minutes until tender. If boiling, add the sprouts to a pot of boiling water and cook for 5-10 minutes, until tender.
Delicious Recipes with Mung Bean Sprouts
Mung bean sprouts are a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, and there are many delicious recipes that use them. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Stir-fried mung bean sprouts with garlic and soy sauce
- Mung bean sprout salad with carrots, cucumbers, and a sesame seed dressing
- Mung bean sprout and chicken soup with ginger and green onions
Mung Bean Sprouts for Weight Loss
Mung bean sprouts are a great food for weight loss because they are low in calories and high in fiber. They can help you feel fuller for longer, which can reduce your overall calorie intake. Additionally, mung bean sprouts are a good source of protein, which is important for maintaining lean muscle mass when you are losing weight. They are also low in fat and carbohydrates, making them a healthy addition to a weight loss diet.
Mung Bean Sprouts for Digestion
Mung bean sprouts are an excellent food for digestion because they are high in fiber. Fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. In addition to being high in fiber, mung bean sprouts contain enzymes that can help break down carbohydrates and proteins in the digestive tract. This can help reduce bloating and gas.
Vitamins and Minerals in Mung Bean Sprouts
Mung bean sprouts are an excellent source of a variety of vitamins and minerals. One ounce of mung bean sprouts contains:
- Vitamin C: 13% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 5% of the DV
- Folate: 4% of the DV
- Potassium: 2% of the DV
- Magnesium: 2% of the DV
- Phosphorus: 2% of the DV
Mung Bean Sprouts for Heart Health
Mung bean sprouts are a heart-healthy food because they are low in fat and cholesterol. They are also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure. Additionally, mung bean sprouts contain antioxidants that can help prevent damage to the cells in the body. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
Mung Bean Sprouts for Immunity
Mung bean sprouts are a good food for boosting immunity because they are high in vitamin C. Vitamin C plays an important role in the immune system, helping to fight off infections and illnesses. Additionally, mung bean sprouts contain other antioxidants, such as quercetin, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and support immune function.
Sprouted Mung Bean vs. Cooked Mung Bean
While both sprouted mung beans and cooked mung beans are nutritious, there are some differences between the two. Sprouted mung beans are higher in vitamin C, folate, and other nutrients than cooked mung beans. They are also easier to digest because the sprouting process breaks down some of the proteins and carbohydrates in the bean. However, cooked mung beans are still a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients. They are a great addition to soups, stews, and salads. Ultimately, whether you choose sprouted mung beans or cooked mung beans depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs.
FAQs about 1 Oz Mung Beans (Mature Seeds, Sprouted, with Salt, Drained, Cooked, Boiled)
1. What are Mung Beans?
Mung beans are a type of legume native to India and commonly used in Asian cuisine. They are small green beans that can be eaten cooked or sprouted.
2. What are the health benefits of Mung Beans?
Mung beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They may help to lower blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and promote digestive health.
3. How do you cook Mung Beans?
Mung beans can be boiled, steamed, or stir-fried. To boil mung beans, rinse them in water and then add them to a pot with 3-4 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the beans are soft.
4. How many calories are in 1 oz of cooked Mung Beans?
There are approximately 6 calories in 1 oz of cooked mung beans.
5. Can you eat Mung Beans raw?
You can eat sprouted mung beans raw in salads or sandwiches, but it is not recommended to eat uncooked mature mung beans due to potential anti-nutrients that can interfere with nutrient absorption.