Ancient Grain Flour - Rye, Spelt, Khorasan, Einkorn, Emmer & More

Ancient Grains is a term used to describe the 4 original domesticated wheats, grains and pseudocereals. The four main Ancient grains used in baking flour are Rye, Einkorn, Emmer, Spelt and Khorasan. The species are often 8000 to 10000 years old as opposed to modern varieties of grain which could be only a few decades and heritage varieties of wheat which would be hundreds of years. Other Ancient grains include Amaranth, Barley, Freeka, Quinoa, Millet and Buckwheat.

Ancient grain flour is becoming more popular, they are often less refined and less processed than modern varieties of wheat. This is particularly true in their wholegrain form. Ancient grains in their wholegrain form contain a significant amount of vitamins, minerals and fibre than more common cereals like corn, rice and modern wheats.

Most popular Ancient Grain Flours:

Rye Flour.

Rye flour is a type of flour made from rye grain. Rye is a cereal grain similar to wheat but with a slightly stronger, more distinct flavor. Rye flour can range in color from light to dark, depending on how much of the outer bran layer is included in the milling process.

Rye flour contains less gluten than wheat flour, which gives baked goods made with rye flour a denser texture. It is often used in combination with wheat flour to make bread, giving the bread a hearty flavor and a dense, chewy texture. Rye flour is also used to make other baked goods such as crackers, cookies, and pancakes.

Rye flour is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for baking. It is particularly high in fiber compared to wheat flour, which can help support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.

Einkorn Flour. 

Einkorn is an ancient grain flour that is gaining popularity due to its nutritional benefits and unique flavor. It is made from einkorn wheat, one of the earliest forms of cultivated wheat. Einkorn wheat has a higher protein content than modern wheat and is also a good source of essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.

Einkorn flour has a slightly nutty flavor and can be used in baking in a similar way to other wheat flours, although it may require some adjustments to recipes due to its different gluten content. It's often used to make bread, pasta, pancakes, and other baked goods. Many people choose einkorn flour as an alternative to modern wheat flour because of its nutritional profile and potential health benefits.

Spelt Flour.

Spelt flour is another ancient grain flour that has gained popularity in recent years. It is made from spelt, an ancient grain that is a distant cousin of modern wheat. Spelt has a nutty flavor and a slightly sweet taste.

Spelt flour contains gluten, but its gluten structure is different from that of modern wheat, which some people find easier to digest. It also has a higher protein content than modern wheat flour and is a good source of essential nutrients such as fiber, iron, and magnesium.

Spelt flour can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in many recipes, including bread, pasta, cookies, and pancakes. However, it does have a slightly different texture and may require some adjustments to recipes. Overall, spelt flour is a popular choice for people looking for an alternative to modern wheat flour due to its nutritional benefits and unique flavor.

Buy Ancient Grain Flour at Ratton Pantry.