Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Ancient Grain

As we are somewhat historic this week I thought it was appropriate to talk about one of the oldest grain we are known to eat these days. Farro has exploded onto our screens over the past months and today you can find it at restaurants one delicious dishes and supermarkets so you can play with.


I discovered farro at Whole Foods {where else!} in the shape of risotto with butternut squash and since then I have been experimenting with it. But before me ancient peoples were using it around in the Near East about 17,000 years ago {WOW!} and some of them know it as emmer {we call is semi-pearled farro}.


It most grown in mountainous part of Europe and Asia but its a staple of Italian food as it was the garin of choice to feed the Roman Legions. Farro is a type of spelt but when cooked is firmer and more chewy instead of mushy... Make sure that you read the package and it calls for Triticum Dicoccum {it's actual name}.

Farro is not gluten free but has lower contents of it, so if you are allergic better stay away from it. On the other hand is high in fiber, protein and nutrients. It has a slight nutty flavor and it's very versatile as you can use it on a wide variety of dishes like soups, salads and as a rice substitute.


If you feel adventurous, give this hearty grain a try and you won't be disappointed. It is easy to cook as it usually takes about 20 minutes and you can use a similar ratio as rice {2part of water to 1 part of grain}. I've never tried using it on sweet dishes but that pudding at the top looks lovely.

Have a delicious day!

15 comments:

  1. I need to try it. I am always on the lookout for something delicious and healthy.

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  2. Looks interesting, had never heard of it before. Will have to have a look out for it!! Have a great day doll x

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  3. I have been eating it for years, I've always loved to vary on my diet. I like to cook farro salad, just mixing boiled and cooled down farro with chopped fresh veggies, olives and red beans.
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    Coco et La vie en rose
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  4. I've been wanting to mix up my cuisine. Farro looks like a fun (and healthy) thing to try!

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  5. This looks delicious! To be honest I've never heard of farro, but lately I've been trying to experiment with new grains and seeds in my food. I'll be needing to make a stop at whole foods sometime soon!

    Have a great day!
    Grace
    A Southern Drawl

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  6. I love Farro and have been meaning to explore it in my cooking adventures. These dishes look so yummy!

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  7. While I have enjoyed Farro at restaurants, I have yet to experiment with it myself. Now I am inspired! Thank you!!!

    ~ Alexis Grace of North On Harper

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  8. This is my first hearing of it! Looks really good. Will have to try. Thanks!
    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

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  9. I bet farro risotto with butternut squash and saffron would be incredible–adding it to my list of recipes to try!

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  10. Ive never tried farro before, I ma not even sure if it is available here, maybe only in specialty shops. It sounds really interesting

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  11. Mmm I'd never heard of farro before, will have to give it a go!

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  12. I am currently in Portugal and I don't think I can find it around here, but as an addict to Quinoa and Bulgur, can't wait to try it! Thanks for sharing =b

    My Own Project

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  13. how have i never heard of this? i gotta find some!

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  14. This sounds very interesting... will definitely have to check it out.

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  15. I have got to get me some of this. I've been on spelt kick for half a year now and am looking to change it up a bit

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