Tasty, versatile and healthy, fans of this new health trend say it’s going to become the next super grain.
Freekeh (pronounced free-kah), has been a staple in Middle Eastern diets for centuries, but is now gaining popularity and showing up in our local grocery aisles.
Freekeh is wheat that is harvested while still young and green. Its name is translated to the word “rubbed,” which refers to how freekeh is then roasted to burn off and rub away the surrounding straw, revealing the grain that is left behind.
It’s a slightly chewy grain and its flavor is similar to barley – earthy and nutty. The farming and roasting process leaves it with a smokier flavor. In addition to its delicious taste, it’s also a nutritional powerhouse.
Nutritionally speaking Freekeh is superior to rice. Compared to brown rice, freekeh has less calories, twice the amount of protein, close to four times the amount of fibre, less carbohydrates and fat, as well as three times more iron than brown rice.
Freekeh: the next, trendy super grain Beaumont Health https://www.beaumont.org/images/default-source/default-album/logo.png?sfvrsn=d43d7fef_4
Tasty, versatile and healthy, fans of this new health trend say it’s going to become the next super grain.
Freekeh (pronounced free-kah), has been a staple in Middle Eastern diets for centuries, but is now gaining popularity and showing up in our local grocery aisles.
Freekeh is wheat that is harvested while still young and green. Its name is translated to the word “rubbed,” which refers to how freekeh is then roasted to burn off and rub away the surrounding straw, revealing the grain that is left behind.
It’s a slightly chewy grain and its flavor is similar to barley – earthy and nutty. The farming and roasting process leaves it with a smokier flavor. In addition to its delicious taste, it’s also a nutritional powerhouse.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS?
Low in fat while high in protein and fiber, freekeh does a whole lot of good for your body. With twice the amount of protein as quinoa, freekeh can help keep you feeling full long after you’ve eaten it. This ancient grain is also packed with iron, calcium and zinc.
When compared to brown rice, it is thought to contain 3 times the amount of protein and twice the amount of fiber.
Freekeh also has a low glycemic index, which means that carbohydrates release quite slowly compared to baked potatoes and white bread.
It’s important to remember that freekeh is still wheat and contains gluten (quinoa is gluten-free) and is not suitable for those with celiac disease and wheat or gluten allergies.
Nutrition Tier Lists: Grains
FAQ
Is freekeh good for weight loss?
Is freekeh high in carbs?
Is freekeh healthier than quinoa?
Is freekeh a good substitute for rice?
Freekeh is a versatile grain that I like to use in various ways! Soups and stews become instantly more filling with a cup of it added, and a freekeh pilaf has a complex, smoky flavor. This grain is a great substitute for rice, pasta, or quinoa.
White rice vs Fried rice: Which is healthier?
White rice is a healthier option than fried rice. Fried rice is added with fat content which increases the calories but these calories are from fat which is not ideal to have in excess. Instead adding more vegetables to the rice is a healthier option
Does freekeh have more fiber than brown rice?
Freekeh actually contains three times more fiber than brown rice. A diet rich in fiber may contribute to lower body weight by helping you feel full. A randomized, controlled trial conducted by the Annals of Internal Medicine reported that increased fiber consumption helped subjects lose weight.
Is freekeh a good grain?
Freekeh is a great grain because not only does it taste fantastic, it can be served up so many different ways! It can essentially be used wherever you’d use quinoa or rice: in salad or soup, with veggies, etc. Try it in place of bulgur in tabbouleh or pilaf!