Sprouting basil

[Tguch]

Hi! Poured out 2T of basil seeds and soaked them. A few hours later I went to check on them and they had formed a gelatinous goo (like chia seeds). Can someone please let me know how to sprout basil seeds? I assumed they would sprout like alfalfa or broccoli etc. But I was wrong! :) Thanks for your help!

[levamssg]

I've never tried to sprout basil ... so I did a little search on it. The Sprout People didn't have any info, but I found this site backyardgardener.com. Apparently you have to use paper towels and not the regular sprout method.

I love basil - I add the leaves to lots of recipes. But I have full grown plants. Sounds like the sprouts would be a great thing!

http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html

Sprouting Seeds : Basil
Vegetable
Description

NOT SUITABLE FOR USE IN SEED SPROUTER
Delicious aniseed flavour and fragrance (http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html) to add to salads. Easy to sprout in a warm place. An airing cupboard is ideal if white sprouts are required, or in the kitchen, out of direct sunlight, for green (http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html) sprouts. This will give two slightly different tastes and textures.
Sowing Instructions

Sowing time:
any time of the year.

Place 4 layers of kitchen (http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html) paper on a saucer and wet it allowing any excess water to drain away. Sprinkle the seed thinly over the paper and place the whole container inside a polythene bag and seal. Put in a warm, dark place and check regularly.
Growing Instructions

When seedlings (http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html) are about 1cm (1/2 inch) high, bring into the light, a windowsill is ideal. Your sprouting seed basil will be ready in 3-6 days.
Kitchen Notes

Use raw to add flavours and textures to salads and sandwiches, or blanch in boiling water to add to other vegetables (http://www.backyardgardener.com/seeds/product08/669.html) in stews, soups, casseroles and curries. Also delicious added to stir fries.