Simple Chop Recipe

Sprouts and chopped or grated vegetables (‘chop’) are a simple way to add more variety to your birds’ diet, particularly for those who are reluctant to try new foods.

A useful trick is to sprinkle some of your birds’ usual seed mix through the chop. As they forage for familiar seeds, they often sample new foods unintentionally.

We’re frequently asked how we prepare the sprouted mix we feed at Little Beaks. The good news is that it’s very simple. While the process takes some time, most of it involves soaking, rinsing, and waiting, rather than active preparation.

Important: Always consult an avian veterinarian before making significant changes to your birds’ diet or if you have any concerns about their health or nutritional needs.

Choosing a Sprouting Mix

You can buy a commercial sprouting mix or make your own using a variety of whole grains, legumes, and seeds.

Common ingredients include:

  • Oats

  • Rice

  • Wheat

  • Lentils

  • Mung beans

  • Peas

  • Safflower

  • Sunflower

  • Sesame

The mix we commonly use includes:

  • Dunn peas

  • Black sunflower

  • Safflower

  • Premium wheat

  • Kalo (sorghum)

  • Whole oats

  • Mung beans

Vegetables We Commonly Add

Most bird-safe vegetables can be used. At Little Beaks, we often include:

  • Kale

  • Spinach

  • Carrot

  • Beetroot

  • Broccoli

  • Chillies

  • Cabbage

Many birds prefer finely grated vegetables over larger pieces.

Never feed onion, as it is toxic to birds. If you are unsure whether a food is safe, check with your avian vet before offering it.

How to Prepare Sprouts

  1. Place one to two cups of sprouting mix into a container at least twice the size of the dry contents.

  2. Cover with tap water.

  3. Soak for 8–12 hours (overnight works well).

  4. Drain and rinse thoroughly.

  5. Continue rinsing three to four times per day until the seeds begin to sprout.

Sprouts are nutritious at all stages, but many people prefer to feed them just as the first small shoots appear.

Before Serving

Mix the sprouts with a variety of chopped or grated vegetables.

As with all fresh foods, hygiene is essential. Watch carefully for any signs of mould and rinse thoroughly throughout the sprouting process.

Serve and Observe

Offer the mix fresh and see what your birds enjoy. Many birds that are hesitant around vegetables become far more interested when they can forage through sprouts and familiar seeds.

This recipe forms part of our guide to basic small bird care.