Kamut, also known as Khorasan wheat, is an ancient grain that has recently gained popularity as a healthier alternative to modern wheat. With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, kamut is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to bread and pasta. However, if you’re new to cooking kamut, you might be wondering where to start.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook kamut, including tips on how to prepare it, a basic recipe, and two delicious kamut recipes to try at home. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to cook kamut like a pro and enjoy its many health benefits.

1. Preparing Kamut

Before you start cooking kamut, you need to prepare it properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Cleaning and Sorting Kamut

The first step in preparing kamut is to clean and sort it. This is important because kamut can sometimes contain small stones or debris. To clean kamut, place it in a colander and rinse it under cold running water. Then, sort through the grains and remove any debris you find.

Soaking Kamut Overnight

Soaking kamut overnight is optional, but it can help reduce the cooking time and make the grains more digestible. To soak kamut, place it in a large bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.

Cooking Time and Ratios

Cooking time and ratios depend on the type of kamut you’re using. Generally, you’ll need to use a 3:1 ratio of water to kamut. Bring the water to a boil, add the kamut, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the grains are tender but still chewy.

2. Basic Kamut Recipe

Now that you know how to prepare kamut, let’s move on to a basic kamut recipe that you can use as a base for other dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup kamut
• 3 cups water
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Clean and sort the kamut.
2. Soak the kamut overnight, if desired.
3. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
4. Add the kamut and reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the grains are tender but still chewy.
6. Drain any excess water and season with salt to taste.
7. Use the cooked kamut in salads, soups, or other dishes.

This basic kamut recipe is simple and easy to make. You can adjust the seasoning and add other ingredients to suit your taste. Now that you know how to cook kamut, let’s move on to two delicious kamut recipes: a kamut salad and a kamut soup.

3. Kamut Salad Recipe

Kamut salad is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try at home:

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked kamut
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked kamut, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve the kamut salad chilled or at room temperature.

Tips on How to Level Up the Recipe

If you want to make this kamut salad even more delicious, here are some tips on how to level up the recipe:

• Add some feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy flavor.
• Roast the cherry tomatoes and red onion for a sweet and caramelized taste.
• Substitute the parsley with cilantro or mint for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
• Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a crunchy texture.

4. Kamut Soup Recipe

Kamut soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler weather. Here’s a recipe that you can try at home:

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked kamut
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in some olive oil until softened.
2. Add the carrots and celery and sauté for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and dried thyme.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the cooked kamut and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the kamut is heated through.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the kamut soup hot with some crusty bread.

Tips on How to Level Up the Recipe

If you want to make this kamut soup even more flavorful, here are some tips on how to level up the recipe:

• Add some chopped kale or spinach for some extra nutrients.
• Substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky and intense taste.
• Add some cooked chicken or sausage for a protein boost.