Bean Sprouts

Crisp, pale shoots germinated from mung beans (*Vigna radiata*), harvested within days of sprouting. Sprouting converts the bean's starches into simpler sugars and boosts vitamin C, giving a juicy, snappy texture with a clean, faintly nutty flavor. Essential in pad thai, spring rolls, pho garnishes, and stir-fries — add in the final moments of cooking so they keep their crunch. Choose plump white sprouts with pale tips; avoid slimy or browning ones and use within a couple of days.