The Rise Of Einkorn Wheat: A Modern Trend In Ancient Grains
Ancient grains are becoming popular again. Einkorn wheat is one type that makes flour similar to regular all-purpose flour but is safer for people with gluten issues.
Einkorn is one of the oldest types of cultivated wheat and has gained a lot of popularity recently.
Many people are interested in Einkorn flour as an alternative for those sensitive to modern wheat.
What is Einkorn Wheat and Einkorn Flour?
Einkorn wheat is an ancient grain that has been around for thousands of years. It remains in its original form and hasn’t been changed through hybridization. This wheat is packed with nutrients like beta carotene and B vitamins.
Unfortunately, farmers removed this early wheat variety as modern science developed easier-to-harvest and more productive wheat types.
Today, einkorn wheat is mostly grown in Turkey, Morocco, France, and parts of the former Soviet Union. Einkorn wheat has smaller grains and tighter husks compared to commercial wheat.
These characteristics are why commercial growers often avoid planting einkorn wheat. Along with einkorn, consider exploring another lesser-known cereal grain called buckwheat.
Nutritional Benefits of Einkorn Whole Wheat
In the effort to produce hybrids to grow more efficient crops, we have lost some of their nutritional power. This is where Einkorn wheat really shines. It still possesses its original nutritional values.
Higher nutrition, non-GMO status, and low gluten levels are the main reasons why this wheat is so highly prized. Einkorn Wheat can even be used to make homemade diastatic malt for better breads!
And, as more and more people discover Einkorn wheat and its incredible qualities, this wheat will become more mainstream. I like using Einkorn Flour from Jovial Foods. It is an organic flour that can be incorporated in with almost all of your baking!
Higher Beta-Carotene Levels
Einkorn contains 3-4 times more beta-carotene than modern wheat. Another carotenoid found in much higher quantity in Einkorn wheat is lutein. It is particularly beneficial for your eyes. The nutrients in einkorn flour are worth looking into, as this ancient grain has much to offer in our modern diet.
Making beta carotene, lutein, and other carotenoids a part of your daily diet sounds like a positive step in building a healthy diet to guard against disease. But, of course, talk to your healthcare provider or nutritionist if you have dietary restrictions.
Higher Vitamin A Levels
Einkorn wheat has twice as much vitamin A as most modern wheat. Vitamin A is important for healthy skin, good vision, normal mucous membranes, and a strong immune system.
Experts suggest getting vitamins and minerals from our diet, and vitamin A is no different. Einkorn wheat also has 30% more protein and 15% less starch than regular wheat.
Higher Levels of Additional Vitamins and Minerals
This ancient grain contains more vitamins and minerals like thiamin, riboflavin, iron, and phosphorus, and it has a better taste. Einkorn wheat berries are also higher in fiber, which aids digestion and can help with weight loss.
Additional Nutritional Information on Einkorn Wheat
Is Einkorn Wheat Gluten-Free?
Einkorn wheat is not gluten-free. Its gluten content is similar to modern wheat. However, it lacks certain high molecular weight gluten proteins that can cause issues for some people. This means the gluten in einkorn is weaker.
This information may interest those worried about “wheat belly.”
Further Reading: Einkorn Wheat Nutrients
Einkorn wheat might be a healthier choice for those sensitive to modern wheat. It is easier to digest and suitable for people with mild gluten intolerance. However, it is not safe for those with celiac disease.
How to Use Einkorn Wheat?
This specialty wheat has a softer texture, but the flour is just like the regular all-purpose flour. This flour can be used as a replacement for modern flour; use it in any dish, from cookies, quick bread, cakes, and muffins to pancakes, waffles, and even homemade gravy.
Baking Tips for Einkorn Flour
You can also eat whole cooked berries by adding them into your salads or just enjoy them after simmering them like rice.
The taste and flavor of this ancient wheat are similar to that of the modern wheat. That said, it has a slightly deeper, toasty, and nutty taste and texture. It works wonderfully well for warm, comfort foods like cinnamon bread, pancakes, and sandwiches.
Finally
With all these amazing qualities of this fabulous old “new” grain, it’s time to go back to nature’s original wheat for a wonderful flavor and power-packed nourishment.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. In strict accordance with FDA regulations the information and products on this website are not intended to treat, cure, prevent, mitigate or diagnose any illness or disease.
