Not Just for Hangovers: Why We Should Be Eating Bean Sprouts.

Bean sprouts are an essential ingredient in Korean cuisine. Whether served as a side dish or in soups, they are a versatile food that is rich in nutrients and can help alleviate hangovers and improve constipation. In this post, we will explore the various health benefits of bean sprouts and how to cook them deliciously.

 

Bean sprouts are a nutrient-rich ingredient with a variety of benefits.

 

The Diverse Health Benefits of Bean Sprouts

Every part of the bean sprout—from the head to the stem and root—offers distinct health benefits. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting various functions in our bodies.

Head: A Treasure Trove of Vitamin B1

The head of the bean sprout is rich in Vitamin B1, which is essential for energy metabolism in the body and contributes to strengthening the immune system. It also helps prevent several diseases, including heart disease and eye disorders. Vitamin B1 plays an important role in stress relief, helping to alleviate mental fatigue.

Stem: Packed with Vitamin C

The stem contains a significant amount of Vitamin C. With 8mg of Vitamin C per 100g, bean sprouts rank high among vegetables. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant to prevent cell damage and aids in the absorption of iron, making it effective in preventing anemia. It also plays an important role in improving skin health and strengthening the immune system.

Root: Aspartic Acid for Hangover Relief

The root of the bean sprout contains a high amount of aspartic acid, which is effective in relieving hangovers. Aspartic acid helps the liver function by quickly removing acetaldehyde, a substance that causes hangovers, from the body and alleviates hangover symptoms. This is why many people enjoy bean sprout soup as a hangover remedy.

 

Bean Sprouts for Constipation Improvement

Bean sprouts are rich in potassium and dietary fiber, making them an excellent food for improving constipation.

The Role of Potassium

Bean sprouts contain about 298mg of potassium per 100g. Potassium helps lower blood pressure by promoting the excretion of sodium from the body and improves kidney function. It is especially important for individuals with hypertension.

The Benefits of Dietary Fiber

Bean sprouts are high in dietary fiber, which greatly aids in the prevention of constipation. Dietary fiber combines with water in the colon to increase stool volume and soften it, facilitating bowel movements. This reduces discomfort caused by constipation and is effective in improving colon health.

 

Tips to Eliminate the Odor When Cooking Bean Sprouts

Here are some ways to reduce the odor when cooking bean sprouts.

Choosing the Right Bean Sprouts

When selecting bean sprouts, it's best to choose ones with a slight curve rather than being too straight. These bean sprouts are fresh and taste good.

Washing Method

When washing bean sprouts, gently rinse them in cold water. Be careful not to wash them too vigorously, as they can break apart easily.

Eliminating Odor While Cooking

• Cooking with the Lid Closed: When boiling bean sprouts, keep the pot lid closed as much as possible to reduce the odor. Frequently opening the lid can spread the odor.
• Adding Garlic and Salt: Adding a little garlic and salt when boiling bean sprouts can reduce the odor. Garlic and salt enhance the flavor and aroma of the bean sprouts, making them more delicious.

Storage Method

When storing bean sprouts, keep the bag unopened and store it in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their freshness for a longer period.

 

Recommended Bean Sprout Recipes

Bean sprouts are an ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Here are a few recommended recipes.

Bean Sprout Soup

Bean sprout soup is well-known as a hangover soup and can be easily prepared.

Ingredients

• 200g bean sprouts
• 1.5L water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

• Clean the bean sprouts thoroughly.
• Bring the water to a boil in a pot, then add the bean sprouts and boil for about 5 minutes.
• Add soy sauce and minced garlic to taste.
• Season with salt and pepper, then boil once more to finish.

Bean Sprout Salad

Bean sprout salad is a refreshing side dish that highlights the fresh flavor of the sprouts.

Ingredients

• 200g bean sprouts
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• A pinch of sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

• Blanch the bean sprouts in boiling water for about 3 minutes, then rinse in cold water and drain.
• Mix with minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds.
• Serve in a bowl.

 

Conclusion

Bean sprouts are a nutrient-rich ingredient with a variety of benefits. They are rich in nutrients such as Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, and aspartic acid, which help boost the immune system, relieve hangovers, and improve constipation. Additionally, you can reduce the odor and enhance their flavor through proper cooking methods. Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal by incorporating bean sprouts into various dishes.