Growing Seeds (Sabzeh) For Nowruz (Persian New Year)

This year's Persian New Year (Nowruz) falls on March 20th. Along with the spring cleaning, it's also time to start growing سبزه  (sabzeh), the wheat sprouts that symbolize revival and rebirth. While wheat is the most popular choice, you can also grow barley, lentils, or mung beans. Sabzeh is one of the seven symbolic items on the Haft-Seen table, each beginning with the letter "S."

Below are the simple steps on how to grow sabzeh, just as my mother taught me:

1. Depending on the size of your display dish, measure 1-2 cups of the seeds of your choice.
2. Rinse them under cool water and place them in a large bowl. Cover with fresh cool water, and soak for 2-3 days, changing the water a couple of times a day.
3. Drain the seeds and wrap them in a moist cheesecloth. Place the cheesecloth in a deep dish to help keep the seeds until they begin to germinate. Set the dish on a sunny windowsill.
4. Keep the seeds moist by sprinkling or spraying water as needed.
5. If the seeds are of good quality and have enough sunlight, they'll sprout in just a few days.
6. Once sprouted, remove the cloth and transfer the seeds to your display dish.
7. Add fresh water twice, always pouring off the extra water. 
8. For a festive touch, tie a red ribbon around the grass and place it on your Haft-Seen table. 

Happy Spring and Nowruz!