What Is Einkorn Flour and What Are Its Benefits?

With the growing epidemic of gastrointestinal disorders in the U.S., many are seeking life-changing solutions in their diets. Enter Einkorn flour—an ancient grain making a remarkable comeback. It’s a beacon of hope for those suffering from these conditions and a healthy alternative for anyone concerned about the quality of modern wheat. The key might lie in embracing the old ways and rediscovering the benefits of Einkorn Wheat. Let’s take a look at the ancient grain, Einkorn.

Einkorn: The Ancient Grain With Modern Benefits

Einkorn wheat stands out as the oldest surviving form of unhybridized wheat today, remarkable in that it’s NEVER been hybridized! This ancient grain has been a staple for thousands of years, favored for its high nutritional content, versatile uses in cooking and baking, and hardy nature in the field.

What sets it apart is its potential for higher yields and earlier maturity than ordinary wheat varieties. It grows taller, especially in contrast to the shorter-stalked wheat varieties cultivated by large agricultural companies today. These modern varieties are bred specifically for mass production, featuring shorter stalks and larger heads to maximize yield.

However, it’s important to note the differences in cultivation practices. Many mass-produced wheat crops today are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and are often treated with a significant amount of herbicides and pesticides. This starkly contrasts the more natural cultivation methods typically used for growing Einkorn wheat, which tend to be more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Significant Points in the History of Einkorn Flour

• In the early 1900s, wheat was chosen as the crop to feed the growing world population.
• Plant breeders created new varieties of wheat for increased yields.
• Wheat was dwarfed with cobalt radiation.
• Crops were altered for maximum production but lost vital nutrients.
• Varieties of wheat were altered to make them easier to harvest and thresh than the hardier Einkorn Wheat.

These all combined to decrease the amount grown worldwide. This is unfortunate because it’s easier for the body to digest while still containing more protein and antioxidants than the newer modern wheat varieties.  

Fun Fact: When Ötzi the Iceman was found preserved in a glacier in the Italian Alps, Einkorn wheat was found in his stomach. This is amazing and shows just how long this wheat has been around.

How Does Einkorn Differ from Other Wheat?

Einkorn boasts a nutritional profile superior to modern wheat varieties, with a protein content that’s 30% higher and 15% less starch. This ancient grain is also rich in minerals and offers a uniquely robust flavor. Perhaps its most significant distinction, particularly for those concerned about gluten, is that it contains lower amounts of gluten than modern wheat and a different type of gluten, which is often more tolerable for many people.

Health Benefits of Einkorn Wheat Flour

As an ancient grain, it stands out for its superior nutritional value compared to the mass-produced wheat of today’s large-scale agriculture. This distinction is significant for those with gluten intolerance or related disorders, as discovering its health benefits can be a game-changer in their diets.

Unlike modern wheat, it lacks the specific proteins that often trigger gluten sensitivity. This unique characteristic means that many people who struggle with symptoms from consuming conventional wheat products find they can enjoy it without the same issues.

The demand for authentic products has seen a remarkable resurgence. This shift is driven by growing awareness of the problems associated with modern wheat production and the rising prevalence of gluten sensitivity. People are increasingly turning to Einkorn, not just as a safer alternative but also for its health benefits. These benefits are attributed to its prolonged germination and sprouting times, which reduce phytic acid levels and enhance the grain’s natural content of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Nutrition Facts for Einkorn Wheat

• GMO-free
• Zinc
• Iron
• Potassium
• Riboflavin
• Vitamins B6 and A
• Protein
• Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Carotenoids
• Lutein

What Does Einkorn Flour Taste Like?

It possesses a deep, nutty flavor that far surpasses the blandness of modern commercial wheat. This decadent taste makes it a delightful choice for comfort food dishes, such as Einkorn pancakes and banana bread, where its unique essence truly shines.

Whole berries offer a delightful experience. Try popping them for a crunchy, popcorn-like snack – a surprisingly tasty treat. Or, for a more savory option, soak and simmer the berries. They transform into a delightful alternative to rice, offering a texture and taste that, in my opinion, is superior.

Using Einkorn Flour in Your Favorite Recipes

Are you curious about using Einkorn flour in your everyday recipes? You can generally substitute it cup for cup with regular whole wheat flour in most of your favorite dishes. However, there’s a small catch: it absorbs liquids more slowly than modern wheat. To achieve the perfect consistency, you might need to reduce the liquid content in your recipes by about 15-20%. If you need help converting your recipes, we have an Einkorn Conversion Chart just for you.

When it comes to all-purpose flour, Einkorn’s all-purpose variety can also be swapped cup for cup. But keep in mind there are a few nuances to consider. In the dedicated article, you can read all of my best tips for baking with it.

Baking with Einkorn flour isn’t just a healthy choice for your family; it’s a nutritious way to enjoy your meals. Its digestibility and different cooking properties, primarily due to its less stretchy gluten than modern wheat, make it a unique ingredient in your kitchen.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, a bit of trial and error can be part of the fun, especially if you have a family open to tasting all your culinary adventures. However, if you prefer a more straightforward approach or are mindful of your budget, starting with recipes specifically designed for it is a great idea. There’s a wealth of Einkorn-specific recipes out there, ready to help you integrate this ancient grain into your family’s favorite dishes.

Is Einkorn flour the same as all-purpose flour?

If you want all-purpose flour, be sure you buy all-purpose and not whole wheat. All-purpose flour is a type of wheat flour with some of the bran removed, giving it a finer texture. It’s easier to mill without the extra bran. All-purpose Einkorn flour has a similar appearance and texture to the more commonly used white flour.

Interestingly, some people find all-purpose Einkorn flour even more digestible than its whole wheat counterpart, thanks to removing the extra bran. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who are sensitive to whole grains.

Choosing the Right Flour: Whole Wheat vs. All-Purpose

When choosing between Einkorn Whole Wheat Flour and Einkorn All-Purpose Flour, the decision often comes down to the type of baking you’re planning to do. Much like the distinction between standard whole grain and all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour shines in rustic bread, artisan loaves, and yeast bread, highlighting its full-bodied flavor and texture. On the other hand, I find the all-purpose version is superior for pastries, cookies, pancakes, and other baked goods, where a lighter texture is desired. I use Einkorn all-purpose flour for all of my baking.

Where to Purchase Einkorn Flour

There are several places you can buy it. We purchase ours from Einkorn.com, and we have purchased from Breadtopia.com, I find their bolted Einkorn flour a good compromise between whole grain and all-purpose. Of course, there’s always Jovial Foods, which is probably the original source.

Why is it so expensive, and how can I save money?

Einkorn flour’s higher cost can be attributed to the rising demand and the limited number of growers in the U.S. Yet, it’s worth considering the nutritional benefits it brings. When you incorporate more nutritious foods like this into your diet, you might need less to satisfy your body’s nutritional needs, potentially leading to overall savings.

An alternative way to save, which requires an initial investment but is cost-effective in the long run, involves buying Einkorn wheat berries and milling your flour at home. Though purchasing a good grain mill might seem like a significant upfront cost, milling your flour can be more economical than buying pre-milled flour.

Moreover, freshly milled flour offers a nutritional advantage. Over time, milled flours oxidize, losing some of their nutrient value. Milling the wheat berries at home ensures you get the freshest, most nutrient-rich flour possible.

How Long Will Berries or Flour Keep in Storage?

To ensure the longevity of wheat berries, store them in an airtight food-grade bucket or mylar food storage bag. Place the container in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. While some opt to freeze their berries for extended preservation, I prefer not to rely on a consistent power supply for storage. When stored correctly, wheat berries can last for years.

Unlike many modern wheat flours, it is free of preservatives and has a shorter shelf life. It’s important to note the best-by date on each bag of flour. Generally, its shelf life is around 6 months. To maximize this, store the flour in your canister and keep any excess in the fridge or freezer.

I refrigerate what doesn’t fit into my canister and the extra bags and have never encountered any issues. Remember, if you freeze or refrigerate your flour, always allow it to return to room temperature before using it in recipes. This ensures the best results in your baking.

Where to Buy Einkorn Wheat Berries and Flour

There are several reliable sources where you can purchase Einkorn flour and berries. We often get ours from Einkorn.com, which has consistently met our expectations. Another favorite of ours is Breadtopia.com. I particularly like their bolted version, which strikes a nice balance between whole-grain and all-purpose varieties.

Of course, there’s Jovial Foods, probably one of the most well-known suppliers of Einkorn products. Each of these providers offers a unique selection, so you can explore and find the one that best suits your needs. Jovial Foods company founder Carla Bartolucci brought it back from the old ways to rediscovery on her journey to find a substitute for refined and modified wheat flour for her family.

FAQs About Einkorn Flour

1. What is Einkorn Flour? It’s a flour made from an ancient wheat variety known for its high nutritional value. It’s considered the original wheat, cultivated by humans thousands of years ago.
2. What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Einkorn? It is rich in protein, with a significantly higher amount compared to modern wheat. It also has more phosphorus, lutein, and B12, offering a nutritious alternative to standard wheat varieties​​​​​​.
3. Is Einkorn Better for Gluten Sensitivity? It does contain gluten but in a different form compared to modern wheat. Due to its unique gluten makeup and weaker gluten structure, it’s often more easily tolerated by people with gluten sensitivities​​​​.
4. Can Einkorn Help with Weight Loss? It may aid in weight loss as it’s digested more efficiently than modern wheat, helping reduce the risk of obesity. Its composition includes proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, fructans, zinc, and iron, contributing to its nutritional benefits​​.
5. How Does Einkorn Compare to Modern Wheat in Terms of Disease Prevention? It’s high in antioxidants like carotenoids and phenolic acids, which are thought to help prevent diseases such as macular degeneration and certain cancers​​.
6. Does Einkorn Affect Blood Sugar Levels? Some studies suggest that ancient wheat varieties like Einkorn may help delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, potentially due to their effects on glycemic response and cholesterol levels​​.
7. How Should Einkorn Flour be Used in Cooking and Baking? It absorbs liquid more slowly than other flours and requires gentle handling due to its weaker gluten structure. I recommend starting with recipes specifically designed for it to decrease your learning curve.

You May Also Enjoy

• Einkorn Recipes
  
• Einkorn Conversion Chart
  
• Best Tips for Baking With Einkorn

Wrap UP

Embracing Einkorn flour in your kitchen is a step toward healthier, more natural eating. This ancient grain, valued for its higher protein and more digestible gluten, offers a nourishing alternative to regular wheat. Though it may cost a bit more, its rich flavor and nutritional benefits are worth it. Simple storage methods like airtight containers can help maximize its goodness. Adding it to your meals means not just a change in ingredients but a shift towards a tradition of wholesome eating, bringing its unique benefits to your family’s table.

Now that you know all about it, what will you bake first?

As always, we’re here to help