Also known by its scientific name Triticum spelta, is an ancient grain belonging to the same family as common wheat. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and has been an important part of the diet in many cultures around the world.
Spelt is one of the first forms of wheat cultivated by humans. It has a long history of use in Europe and the Middle East, where it has been a staple in many cultures over the centuries. It is considered a nutritious source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, B vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium and zinc. It also contains a variety of antioxidants and phytochemicals that are beneficial for health. Some claim that is more easily digested than regular wheat due to its different gluten structure. However, for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, spelt still contains gluten and may not be suitable for consumption.
Spelt flour has a mild, nutty flavor, and the resulting texture of baked goods made with spelt tends to be denser and chewier compared to products made with regular wheat. This grain is known for being a robust crop that can grow in varying soil and climate conditions. Plus, it generally requires fewer pesticides and fertilizers than modern wheat, making it a popular choice among sustainability-minded farmers.
Spelt can be found in many forms, including whole grains, flour, flakes, and even baked goods like breads, cakes, and cookies. If you're interested in trying spelt, it might be a good idea to start with baked goods or whole grains and see how you feel about the flavor and digestibility.
Pearl Spelt goes through a peeling process, where the outer layer, known as the skin or bran, is removed. This process results in a softer, quicker-cooking grain compared to whole spelt, which keeps the shell intact.
You can learn a few recipes with spelt:
Spelt Bread: a traditional recipe in many parts of Europe, especially in the region of Germany, Switzerland and Austria. It can be made with pure spelt flour or combined with regular wheat flour. Spelt bread has a dense texture and mild flavor, being appreciated by many traditional bread lovers.
Spelt Risotto: a variation on the classic Italian risotto, where rice is replaced by spelt. Cooked spelt adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the dish. It can be prepared with vegetable broth, fresh vegetables, parmesan cheese and herbs for a rich and comforting flavor.
Spelt Salad: a healthy and nutritious option that combines cooked spelt with a variety of fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and aromatic herbs such as parsley and mint. It is usually seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper, creating a light and refreshing meal.
Spelt Soup: a comforting recipe in many European cuisines. It can be made with vegetable, meat or chicken broth, adding cooked spelt along with vegetables such as carrots, celery and onion. Herbs like thyme and rosemary can also be used to flavor the soup.
Spelt Cake: a healthier alternative to cake made with regular wheat flour. It can be prepared with spelt flour, sugar, eggs, oil and additional ingredients such as dried fruit, nuts or chocolate. Spelt cake has a dense texture and rich flavor, making it a delicious dessert.
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