Friday, June 24, 2011

How to Use Wheatberry

From the Wiki: wheat berry refers to the entire wheat kernel (except for the hull), comprising the bran, germ, and endosperm. Wheat berries have a tan to reddish brown color and are available as either a hard or soft processed grain. They are often added to salads or baked into bread to add a crunchy texture; as a whole grain, they also provide nutritional benefits since they are an excellent source of dietary fiber. They are a really nice change of pace if you are a family who has a starchy side with each meal ( typically, rice or pasta ).



How to Cook Wheat berries:

         Follow directions on the package - some brands of wheat berries are partially pre-cooked, and can be cooked quickly in a pot of water - or...

  • Measure 1 cup of wheat berries and place in a strainer. Wash the wheat berries thoroughly under running water, even if they were packaged.
  • Place them in a medium saucepan and cover with about 2 inches of water. Cover and let them soak overnight.
  • Drain the water in the morning and rinse the wheat berries once more.
  • Add the 3 cups of water and salt to the wheat berries and bring to a vigorous boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until they split open and turn chewy.




    Options: 
  • Eat them in the morning instead of oatmeal. For a power breakfast, add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of peanut butter.
  • Make a healthy lunch salad with wheat berries, lentils, green onion, cumin and garlic vinaigrette dressing. Add celery or bell peppers for additional vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Substitute wheat berries for rice in a pilaf for dinner. Or add them to soups instead of barley.