Spelt is an ancient grain that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. It is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. However, cooking spelt can be intimidating for those who have never worked with this grain before.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook spelt, from preparing the grain to using it in various dishes. We’ll cover basic cooking methods, recipes, and tips to ensure that your spelt dishes are delicious and nutritious.

What is Spelt and Why Cook it?

Spelt is an ancient grain that has been around since 5000 BC. It is a distant cousin of wheat and has a similar taste and texture. However, spelt is more nutritious than wheat, containing higher levels of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also easier to digest than wheat, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Cooking spelt is a great way to incorporate this nutritious grain into your diet. Spelt can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, stews, and baked goods. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, making it a great alternative to other grains like rice or quinoa.

Basic Cooking Methods for Spelt

Before cooking spelt, it is important to prepare the grain properly. This involves soaking, rinsing, and draining the spelt to remove any dirt or debris. Once the spelt is prepared, there are two basic cooking methods: boiling and baking.

Soaking Spelt

Soaking spelt is an essential step in preparing the grain for cooking. Soaking helps to activate the enzymes in the grain and makes it easier to digest. To soak spelt, simply place the grain in a bowl and cover it with water. Let the spelt soak for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Rinsing Spelt

After soaking, rinse the spelt thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Place the spelt in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water.

Draining Spelt

Once the spelt is rinsed, drain it well by shaking the strainer or letting it sit for a few minutes. Be sure to remove as much water as possible to prevent the spelt from becoming mushy during cooking.

Boiling Spelt

Boiling is the most common method for cooking spelt. It is relatively easy and produces a fluffy and tender grain. Here are the steps for boiling spelt:

Water to Spelt Ratio

The water to spelt ratio is crucial for perfectly cooked spelt. The general rule is to use 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of spelt. However, this ratio may vary depending on the recipe. If you’re cooking spelt for a salad, you may want to use less water for a firmer texture.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for spelt is approximately 30-40 minutes. Once the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Check the spelt after 30 minutes to see if it’s cooked to your desired texture. If not, let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Adding Flavor with Spices

Spelt has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with spices and seasonings. You can add spices like bay leaves, thyme, or rosemary to the water before boiling to infuse the spelt with flavor. You can also add salt, pepper, and olive oil to the spelt after it’s cooked for additional flavor.

Baking Spelt

Baking with spelt flour is a great way to add this nutritious grain to your diet. Spelt flour can be used in a variety of baked goods, including bread, muffins, and cakes. Here’s what you need to know about baking with spelt flour:

Using Spelt Flour

When using spelt flour, it’s important to note that it has a lower gluten content than wheat flour. This means that baked goods made with spelt flour may not rise as much as those made with wheat flour. To compensate for this, you can add baking powder or yeast to the recipe.

Substituting Spelt Flour for Wheat Flour

You can substitute spelt flour for wheat flour in most recipes. However, you may need to adjust the liquid and baking time to get the right texture. Start by replacing half of the wheat flour with spelt flour and see how it turns out. If you’re happy with the results, you can gradually increase the amount of spelt flour.

Recipes for Spelt Bread and Desserts

Spelt flour can be used to make a variety of delicious bread and dessert recipes. Spelt bread is a great alternative to wheat bread and has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Spelt flour can also be used to make muffins, pancakes, and cakes. There are many recipes available online that use spelt flour, so try experimenting with different recipes to find your favorites.