Bean sprouts – Definition & Meaning

Bean sprouts are a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world. They are a nutritious and delicious addition to salads, stir-fries, sandwiches, and many other dishes. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, and antonyms of bean sprouts.

Definitions

Bean sprouts are the sprouted seeds of various types of beans, such as mung beans, soybeans, and lentils. They are typically grown in water for several days until they develop long, thin shoots. Bean sprouts are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and protein, and are often used in Asian cooking.

Origin

The practice of sprouting beans and other seeds dates back thousands of years to ancient China and India. Bean sprouts were used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, and were also a staple food in many Asian cultures. Today, bean sprouts are grown and consumed all over the world, and are enjoyed for their crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bean sprouts are “the young, tender shoots of germinated beans, especially mung beans, used as a vegetable in Asian cuisine.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines bean sprouts as “the young sprouts of beans, especially mung beans, used in salads and other dishes.”

Associations

Bean sprouts are often associated with Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese dishes. They are also a common ingredient in vegetarian and vegan cooking, as they provide a good source of protein and other nutrients.

Synonyms

Synonyms for bean sprouts include sprouted beans, bean shoots, and bean sprigs.

Antonyms

Antonyms for bean sprouts include mature beans, dried beans, and canned beans.

The same root words

The same root words for bean sprouts include sprout, germinate, and seedling.

Example Sentences

1. “I love adding bean sprouts to my stir-fry for a crunchy texture.”
2. “Bean sprouts are a great source of protein for vegetarians.”
3. “I’m growing my own bean sprouts at home for a fresh and healthy snack.”
4. “The salad was topped with a handful of fresh bean sprouts.”
5. “The soup was flavored with ginger and bean sprouts for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.”