Spelled berries are an ancient type of wheat that offer an alternative for those with wheat allergies or intolerances. They are higher in protein and contain important B vitamins, copper, and manganese. Spelled flour can be traced back to 5000 BC and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Spelled berries are an ancient type of wheat berry. The berry is the plump seed that exists before it is ground into flour or sprouted. Spelled is identified with the scientific name Triticum spelta and belongs to the Poaceae family, or herbaceous plant. Spelled berries offer an alternative for some people who suffer from wheat allergies or intolerances.
Spelled flour can be traced back to 5000 BC It is an ancient cross between Einkorn wheat, Triticum boeoticum and a herb called Triticum tauschid. Spelled originated in Iran and spread throughout the Roman Empire.
Spelled is an annual grain crop grown extensively in parts of Europe and the United States. It grows well in deep soil with good drainage and a spot in full sun is crucial for a good harvest. Berries can be sown in spring, as soon as the last frost date has passed. Seeds germinate and emerge within 3-4 days. The crop ripens for harvest in late summer and early fall.
Though a close relative of modern wheat varieties, people who cannot tolerate wheat can often tolerate spelled. This ancient grain provides more complete nutrition, because it hasn’t been heavily farmed for production like modern wheat varieties. Spelled berries contain many important B vitamins, including B2, niacin and thiamine. It also contains copper and manganese. Spelled is higher in protein than modern wheat varieties and provides a good source of fiber.
Spelled berries can be boiled, sprouted or ground into spelled flour. The rich, nutty flavor lends itself well to a variety of grain dishes and baked goods. As a cereal grain, spelled berries can be boiled whole for a protein-rich cereal dish. Spelled berry flour can be used in any way regular wheat would be used, including pastas, breads and cereals.
Before cooking spelled berries, they need to be rinsed and soaked for eight hours to soften the hard layer of seeds. A combination of one part spelled berries and three parts water works well. As an alternative to water, vegetable or chicken stock makes a flavorful cooking liquid for those berries meant for savory dishes.
Home grinders allow you to have fresh flour as needed. Spelled flour can also be purchased at specialty food stores. The growing demand for an alternative to regular wheat products is creating a market for spelled breads, crackers, cereals and other prepared foods.
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