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What is Spelt

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic (by 6 people)   Your rating: 1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic

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Have You Heard of Spelt Grain Before?

 

I've been experimenting with spelt for about two years now and since I learned about it, I realized that lots of people have no clue what I am talking about when I tell them about baking with spelt. I want to share recipes, ideas, and general information with you so you can say "Now I know!"

What is Spelt? 

And where did spelt come from?

Spelt is a grain that came from long ago and far away. In fact, it is mentioned in the Bible. (Ezekiel refers to it as fitches.) Spelt is hardy, meaning it has a protective husk as it grows and can withstand pollutants and even insect invasions. (No pesticides need to be used as it grows.)

Spelt is an excellent source of essential nutrients. To name a few: Thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, magnesium, as well as B vitamins, complex carbohydrates, the ever popular fiber component and it is even high in protein. (Talk about spelt being a great addition to your diet!)

Now that you know that spelt is a grain. You might wonder why it isn't as popular as other grains. Well, since spelt has that protective husk, it takes extra work to take the husk (hull) off. So, it is easier and less expensive to grow and process other grains. Studies show that spelt is really better for you though. We haven't seen hybrid versions of spelt like other wheats. Spelt is still in its original form.

Do You Like Spelt? 

Why is Spelt so good?

You have probably figured out by now that spelt is edible. Spelt adds a unique nutty flavor to your foods when you use it. Some people use spelt just for that reason.

It makes wonderful cereal (whole grain), bread, cinnamon rolls, cookies... just about whatever you want to try.

I prefer to substitute at least half, if not more, of the flour called for in a recipe with spelt flour. The spelt flour adds an added "mystery" (nutty) flavor as well as a lighter element to many baked goods. (My bread is beautiful these days.)

One other bonus is that both spelt and spelt flour are remarkably water soluble. Your body is able to easily digest it. (Regular wheat - hard red, soft white, and the like - are pretty hard on your insides causing discomfort, indigestion, and even gas when you eat wheat products. Have you ever noticed any side effects?)

Please note that spelt does contain a fragile gluten and should not be used with a strict gluten-free diet.

"For the healthiest bread, use freshly milled flour."

5 Reasons to Love Spelt 

  1. Spelt contains more proteins, amino acids, B vitamins and minerals all in one as compared to hybridized wheat.
  2. Spelt contains non-allergenic properties.
  3. Spelt is compatible with all blood types when you "Eat Right for Your Blood Type"
  4. Spelt's nutty flavor makes everything better.
  5. And best of all, who doesn't love fresh bread right out of the oven? (whether or not you should eat it)

Best Spelt Cereal Recipe 

Spelt Cereal

Coarse-grind spelt (into cracked spelt). Measure 1/4 cup cracked spelt, in a pan, cover the spelt with 1 1/2 cups water and a dash of salt. Bring to a rapid boil for 1 minute, stirring often. Then simmer for 5 minutes. Season to taste with cinnamon, brown sugar and/or honey or anything else that sounds appetizing.

A variation of this recipe allows the chef to take the same ingredients the night before eating - bring them to a boil for 3-4 minutes. Cover and let sit over night. The next morning, warm the cereal in the microwave or on the stove until warm and season to taste.

Authors suggest most diets can eat spelt 

Spelt is a "neutral" kind of food for blood type diets.

Pans for Making Fresh Spelt Bread... Yummmm! 

Or you can make spelt pizza dough, or cinnamon rolls. The possibilities end with your imagination.

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Bakeware 9-Inch Loaf Pan

Amazon Price: $8.95 (as of 05/16/2008)

Chicago Metallic Commercial 1-1/2-Pound Loaf Pan

Amazon Price: $13.29 (as of 05/16/2008)

Chicago Metallic Professional Nonstick 1-Pound Loaf Pan

Amazon Price: $14.00 (as of 05/16/2008)

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Bakeware 14-Inch Pizza Pan

Amazon Price: $12.95 (as of 05/16/2008)

Bialetti 4-Piece Pizza Stone Set

Amazon Price: $24.99 (as of 05/16/2008)

Understanding Spelt

Spelt is a non-allergenic, healthy and even tasty alternative to wheat that most people can eat.
Use it in abundance.

Excellent Spelt Resources 

Spelt - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Spelt From Wikipedia - learn all the basics about spelt.
Food pH List - Balancing Acid/Alkaline Foods
Lists of acid-producing and alkaline-producing foods, to help you plan a balanced and healthy diet.
The World's Healthiest Foods
Non-profit foundation providing reliable, scientifically accurate, personalized information for convenient and enjoyable healthy eating.
Spelt - What is Spelt? - Is Spelt the Same as Wheat?
Spelt is an ancient grain, and spelt is sort of the grandfather of wheat as we know it today. What is spelt and how can spelt be part of a healthy diet?
HiStakes Spelt, Spelt Flour and Bread Making Accessories - Raised Herbicide Free!
Find recipes to use as you mill your own spelt flour with Nutrimill or Wondermill grain mills and make your own nutrient-filled spelt bread with a Bosch Universal Plus. Herbicide free spelt grown naturally by Idaho farmers.

Spelt Lovers - What do you think? 

What is your favorite way to use spelt?

ixlman

Very interesting. I had never heard of spelt.

Posted March 19, 2008

TheresaAnn

I too have food allergies and have been frequenting health food shops for spelt products. Thanks for lens on this topic.

Posted March 06, 2008

ANGIEMADDOX

I have friend with food allergies, she loves spelt bread products. I'm thinking of converting myself, because it taste so good..

Posted February 07, 2008

farmgirl

Do you love spelt? or just tell me what you think of this lens. Thanks for reading

Posted February 07, 2008

New Did you know? Random Facts 

These are amazing facts... I learn something everytime I read them. Try it!
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