What Is It Wednesday? Spelt

What is Spelt? Spelt is an heirloom grain that originated in the Near East over 8,000 years ago. Spelt has remained unchanged and has never been hybridized like modern wheat. It retains many of its original characteristics from antiquity, including its complex flavor and whole grain nutrition. Spelt continues to gain popularity and can be used in place of wheat in making artisan bread, pastas, and cereals. Where is Spelt grown? Our spelt is grown by farmers in Washington. What variety of Spelt does Bob’s Red Mill offer? Our spelt is Triticum spelta and the farmers we partner with in Washington grow both the Sammy and Sungold variety. What different Spelt products does Bob’s Red Mill carry? Organic Spelt Berries, Spelt Berries, Organic Spelt Flour, and Spelt Flour. Is Spelt gluten free? No, spelt is not gluten free. Some people who have difficulty digesting wheat may have better results with spelt. As it’s not a gluten free grain it is not suitable for those with an allergy or sensitivity to gluten. [caption id="attachment_1161809" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Image from EvaintheKitchen.com[/caption] Is Spelt a whole grain? Yes, spelt is a whole grain. Our spelt berries and spelt flour contain the whole grain–nothing added and nothing taken out. Can Spelt be sprouted? Yes, our spelt berries can be sprouted. Check out the wonderful pictures below–these are all images of bread made by our great customers using spelt flour. Look below for recipes and inspiration on how to integrate spelt into your diet. How do I use Spelt? Whole spelt berries can be prepared just like other whole grains. It’s delicious served as a hot cereal, as a substitute for rice in pilaf, or as a cold or warm salad. Our spelt flour can be used as a 100% replacement for flour in a recipe. It has a protein content of 14-18% and will have a similar texture to whole wheat flour–dense and nutty, full of whole grain goodness! Take a look at the recipes below for inspiration. If you're interested in baking bread but are intimidated by the process look at the recipe for "No Knead Dutch Oven Spelt Bread." It's easy to mix up in the morning and have a fresh baked loaf for dinner. We'd love to see your creations–share them on Facebook or Instagram and don't forget to tag #bobsredmill! Recipes:

• Bob's Red Mill: Amazing Spelt Bread
• Bob's Red Mill: Spelt Minestone Soup (pictured below)
• Modern Hippie: No Knead Dutch Oven Spelt Bread
• Accidental Artisan: Seedy Spelt Bread
• Eva in the Kitchen: Easy Homemade Spelt Bread (pictured above)

[caption id="attachment_1161808" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image from BobsRedMill.com[/caption]