Lentil Sprouts (raw and vegan)

Place 1 c. lentils in a large jar and rinse with water. Cover with fresh water and leave overnight in a cool, dark place. In the morning, rinse the lentils again and drain. Place a cheesecloth over the jar and secure it with a rubber band. Place the jar with the top facing down at a diagonal, allowing water to drain out while air circulates. Cover jar with a clean cloth to keep the light out. Leave it in this position for 1–2 days, rinsing and draining lentils every 6—8 hours. Sprouts are ready when their "tails" are about 1/4 inch long. Remove them from the jar, rinse once more, and spread on a paper towel to dry for an hour or so.