Going whole food plant-based (WFPB) can open up completely new culinary frontiers. Health benefits of eating delicious whole grains include reduced risk of stroke, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, reduced risk of heart disease, better weight maintenance, less inflammation, and lower risk of colorectal cancer.
Whole grains are a fundamental part of WFPB eating, and einkorn, pictured here, is one that many people have not heard about or tried.
From einkorn.com:
Einkorn is the most primitive form of wheat on Earth. It contains only 14 chromosomes, whereas modern wheat contains 42. Einkorn does not have the D chromosome, which seems to be connected with wheat intolerance in many humans.
Einkorn is easier to digest and contains more protein and antioxidants than modern wheat.
Einkorn is delicious and hearty, with a chewy, nutty texture and flavor. It can be used like rice or barley. It is sometimes called farro.
Other interesting grains to explore include quinoa which is rich in protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals in amounts greater than in many grains. Quinoa cooks to a delicate, fluffy consistency.
Rye, millet, amaranth, teff, kamut, sorghum, spelt and corn grits are also worth exploring. All these can be cooked and used like rice, and they also make great hot breakfast porridges. Check out delicious recipes for healthy whole grains.
Image Credit:
Kamelia Kostadinova