Soaking nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes
The reason why we like to eat nuts, seeds and beans etc is because they are filling, healthy and a great source of protein, fats and vitamins. Right ?
But did you know it is extremely important to soak them all before you eat them ?
Yes even the nuts and seeds.
Do you have a sore stomach after eating a lot of nuts or feel bloated? There is a saying ''Soak or Bloat''.
Have you heard of PHYTIC ACID ?
Phytic acid is found in nuts and seeds. If we do not soak them all the phytic acid stops the minerals being absorbed properly. They become very hard to digest.
Soaking neutralises the enzymes allowing proper digestion.
How to soak -
Soak / Rince / Dehydrate
Cover with filtered warm water and 1 tsp sea salt. Cover with a cloth and leave for the recommended time, see details below.
Then rinse really well. You can add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to the last rinse, which I do.
Seeds and nuts can now be used or the option of dehydrating, them really well then storing them in an air tight container.
To dehydrate use a dehydrator or place them into an oven on a tray on the lowest settings over night. VERY IMPORTANT TO DEHYDRATE WELL otherwise mould will appear.
Throw out if this happens.
Dried beans ( black beans, cannelloni beans etc )need to be soaked, rinsed and cooked. Simmer for about 50 mins or until tender. Drain.
Brown rice can also be soaked over night, then takes less time to cook and the rice becomes fluffy. There is a low amount of Phytic acid in it.
Food hrs
Almonds 8 - 12
Adzuki Beans 8 - 12
Amaranth 8
Barley 6
Black Beans 8 - 12
Brazil Nuts 3
Buckwheat 6
Cashews 2 - 4
Chickpeas 8
Flaxseeds 1/2
Hazelnuts 8 - 12
Kamut 7
Lentil Beans 7
Macadamias 2
Millet 5
Mung Beans 8 - 12
Oat Groats 6
Pecans 6
Pistachios 8
Pumpkin Seeds 8
Pumpkin Seeds 8
Radish Seeds 8 - 12
Sesame Seeds 8
Sunflower Seeds 8
Quinoa 4
Walnuts 4
Wild Rice 9
For more information read Sally Fallon’s book ‘’Nourishing Traditions ''