I had a question posed to me, what is a wheatberry? Now, I know what a wheatberry is because we raise wheat, different varieties of wheat actually. There are people out there that know what a wheatberry is because they either prep, store, or use daily for baking or cooking. But we had to stop and realize that someone may see our website or our social media posts and ask themselves, what is a wheatberry? We want to clarify what it is we are working hard to bring to you. So without further ado, let's get to clarifying!
Wheatberries are whole, unprocessed wheat kernels that contain the bran, germ, and endosperm. They are the whole grain form of wheat, and they have a chewy texture and nutty flavor. Wheatberries are packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to various dishes.
Wheatberries offer several health benefits. They are a whole grain, this means that they contain all parts of the wheat kernel, as mentioned above: bran, germ, and endosperm. They contain B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc to name a few. They are high in fiber which aids in digestion. The fiber content may also help regulate blood sugar levels and assist in feeling fuller, which may help with weight loss. Wheatberries may help regulate blood sugar levels because they have a lower glycemic index compared to refined grains, meaning wheatberries cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. They also contain antioxidants, which help protect your cells. Last, they are not processed. This means that wheatberries contain their natural nutrients. By eating less processed foods one can associate with better health outcomes.
What can I do with wheatberries? This is the question I find on most people's mind. There are many ways to incorporate wheatberries into your daily life.
First, people have turned to milling their own flour at home. Fresh milled flour has a better flavor and retains more nutrients compared to store-bought flour. We have a countertop stone mill by Mockmill that I mill fresh for when I bake. No countertop stone mill, no worries, there are other avenues you may try. I have used a mill attachment for my KitchenAid mixer. It does grind slower but it does do the job. If you have a high powered blender you may try using it to mill into flour. But mill in small batches and use "pulse" to obtain the texture you want. Before my mixer attachment, I did use a coffee grinder. This is for very small batches but it can work. Grind in short bursts so as to not overheat and to control the fineness. I am also aware that some food processors have attachments or settings that allow for milling.
Second, wheatberries are so versatile and may used in a variety of dishes.
You may use them in salads. You can mix with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a variety of vinaigrettes.
You may put in soups and stews to gain better texture and nutritional value. They work well in vegetable soups or beef stews.
One of my favorites is, breakfast bowls. Mix with yogurt, fresh fruit, nuts, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup. You may use it as a side dish.
You may use as a side dish. You may pair with grilled meats and vegetables.
You may stuff vegetables, such as green peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini. Mix cooked wheatberries with herbs, spices, and your choice of protein or cheese.
Another of our favorites, pilaf! You may cook wheatberries with broth, onions, garlic, and spices. Add some vegetables and nuts for extra flavor and texture.
You may make burgers and patties. Just combine cooked wheatberries with beans, lentils, or vegetables to create vegetarian burgers or patties.
A Midwest staple, casseroles, may have wheatberries added to provide more nutrition. They work into a mix of vegetables, proteins, and either creamy or tomato-based sauce wonderfully.
My new favorite past time, baked goods. This is less common because not everyone has a countertop mill in their kitchen but grinding wheatberries into flour and making bread, muffins, or other baked goods is a delicious way to add these to your diet.
Last, but not least, granola. You can mix wheatberries with oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Bake this mixture until crispy for your own homemade granola. You can enjoy with yogurt or milk.
In coming posts and blogs I will be expanding on the variety of wheatberries we will be offering and providing recipes for you to help you gain more insight into the world of wheatberries!