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When it comes to baking, most of us are familiar with all-purpose flour, self-rising flour, and whole wheat flour. However, there is a whole world of flours out there that many people are yet to discover. One such category is spelled flours. Spelled flours, also known as spelt flours, are ancient grains that have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their unique flavor and potential health benefits. In this guide, we will explore some little-known spelled flours and how you can incorporate them into your baking.
Spelled flours are made from a grain called spelt, which is closely related to wheat. Spelt has been cultivated for thousands of years and was even used by ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans. However, over time it fell out of favor and was largely replaced by wheat. Nowadays, spelled flours are making a comeback as people seek out alternative flours with different flavors and nutritional profiles.
One of the most well-known spelled flours is whole spelt flour. This flour is made by grinding the entire spelt grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. Because it is made from the whole grain, whole spelt flour retains more nutrients compared to refined wheat flour. It is also high in fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking for healthier baking alternatives.
Another lesser-known spelled flour is white spelt flour. Unlike whole spelt flour, white spelt flour is made by removing the bran and germ, resulting in a lighter color and milder flavor. White spelt flour can be a great option for people who want to incorporate spelled flours into their recipes without the more pronounced nutty taste of whole spelt flour.
If you are looking for a gluten-free option, then consider trying spelled flour made from ancient varieties of spelt. Ancient spelled flours are derived from hulled spelt, which contains a natural protective husk that allows it to be considered gluten-free. However, it is important to note that people with severe gluten allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution and ensure that the product they are buying is certified gluten-free.
In terms of baking, spelled flours can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in many recipes. However, due to its lower gluten content, it is recommended to mix spelled flour with other flours or use it in combination with wheat flour. A general rule of thumb is to replace up to 50% of regular flour with spelled flour in a recipe, as using too much spelled flour can affect the texture and rise of baked goods.
Spelled flours are becoming increasingly available in health food stores and specialty markets. However, if you cannot find them locally, you can also purchase them online from various retailers. Experimenting with spelled flours in your baking can be a fun and delicious way to diversify your flavor profiles and introduce ancient grains into your diet.
In conclusion, spelled flours offer a fascinating world of flavors and potential health benefits. Whether you choose whole spelt flour, white spelt flour, or even gluten-free ancient spelled flours, incorporating these lesser-known flours into your baking can add a new dimension to your culinary creations. So why not give them a try and discover the delightful flavors of spelled flours for yourself?
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