HISTORY

Emmer is an ancient hulled grain, older than Spelt but younger than wild Einkorn. It results from cross-pollinating Einkorn grain with a wild grass.

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The Emmer we grow today is one of the oldest domesticated grains. 'Hulled' wheats, like Einkorn and Spelt, has an exceptionally thick husk which needs to be de-hulled by breaking it from its husk before processing. However, the tough hulls give the grains protection in the field and in storage; helps to retain nutrients and maintain freshness over a longer period than other grains; and may help the grain tolerate wet soil conditions by protecting it from some fungal diseases. 

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USES

The most common use for Emmer is as a substitute for wheat flour in pasta, biscuits, crackers, cakes, mixes for breads, pancakes. Emmer has a low protein content and creates lovely short crust pastry. You can use it as 'plain' flour in any recipe. By adding baking powder, you can turn Emmer flour into use as a self-raising flour. You can use Emmer flour for bread recipes, but as the structure of the gluten results in a more dense and closed crumb loaf, we recommend using Spelt flour instead. Cooked Emmer grain is becoming more popular, see the 'Cooking' section below for more information.  Although Emmer is low in gluten, it is still not recommended for people with Celiac Disease.

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NUTRITION
Emmer is more nutritious and digestible than modern wheat. It is higher in fiber than modern wheat and therefore aids in lowering cholesterol, prevents constipation, certain types of cancers when part of a healthy daily diet. Emmer has a low glycemic index and releases its glucose more slowly and steadily and keeps you full for longer. 

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BAKING

Home baking with Emmer flour is on the rise. Emmer is a delicious tasting flour that is a must for anyone who loves to bring richer flavour to any bake.  We recommend using Emmer in the same way as plain white and wholemeal flour and adding baking-powder as stated in the recipes to get that extra rise and softness.  

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COOKING

Besides the use of Emmer flour, Emmer grain makes an excellent substitute for rice or as an addition to stews or sprinkled on top of salads. Even a little cooked grain added to any meal brings you its unique benefit of vitamins and nutrients. See recipes for ideas and how to cook grains.