By Lisa Small

11/25/2020

Einkorn flour is the oldest wheat known to man which is why it's known as "man's first wheat."  I discovered Einkorn flour a number of years ago probably while I was searching for a healthy flour that wasn't as heavy as whole wheat flour.  I use it for all my baking and in any recipe that calls for flour.  I've used both the "all purpose" as well as the whole wheat version and they are equally great.  

Baking with Einkorn flour can be a little tricky.  But, once you know the tricks it's no big deal and the payoff is worth it.  One tip is to reduce the liquid in a recipe by 30% when using Einkorn flour in a dough-type recipe if you're using a regular recipe.  If you're using a recipe specifically for Einkorn flour then no adjustments are necessary.  Check out this informative website for additional tips. 

First things first.  If you don't already own one, go out and buy a digital food scale.  When using Einkorn flour, the best way to measure is to weight it.  One cup of flour is equal to 120 grams of all purpose Einkorn flour.  If using whole wheat Einkorn flour, one cup is equal to 95 grams.  the reason you use more of the all purpose is because the whole wheat is heavier.  This is true with modern flour as well. 

Compared to modern wheat, Einkorn flour is:

 

• Easier to digest

• Higher in nutrients and essential fatty acids

• Higher in protein

• Higher in antioxidants

• Lower in gluten than modern wheat

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Einkorn wheat comes in "all purpose" flour or whole wheat.  And interestingly enough, because it's lower in gluten than regular wheat some who are gluten-sensitive individuals may be able to tolerate it.  But first consult your doctor or nutritionist about this.  One article I read stated that some doctors are working with celiacs and gluten-intolerant patients to see if they can tolerate Einkorn wheat.  PLEASE NOTE:  The patients are undergoing a healing process first so please DO NOT try this at home.

Where can you find Einkorn flour?  Thankfully, more and more stores are carrying Einkorn flour.  There are even food companies that make products from Einkorn flour like Jovial Foods.  I purchase Einkorn flour and food products at Martindale's Natural Market in Springfield, PA, at Whole Foods and at Giant Food Stores.  

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