Freekeh: Why This "Supergrain" Is Taking The World By Storm

Move over quinoa, because a new hot supergrain is about to take the spotlight in the nutrition and food world. Freekeh (pronounced "free-ka") is red hot right now, and for good reason. I had never heard of it until one of my fellow Yummy Mummies mentioned it. I then did some research and found out quickly that eating this ancient grain—touted for its many health benefits—is a nutritional trend worth following. 

The word "Freekeh" is derived from the Arabic word "al-freek" which means "what is rubbed," referring to how they rub the grain to rid it of its shell. Native to Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Egypt, Freekeh is a type of durum wheat that is harvested young (when it is still "green") and when the grains are still moist, "milky" and soft. Small piles of these grains are dried in the sun and then set ablaze—yep, set on fire—so that the chaff and straw burn off. The fire is controlled carefully though, so that the precious seeds do not burn, but rather roast to perfection. The grains are then dried in the sun further, polished and cracked before they are sold. Because this type of wheat grain is harvested when it is so young, it boasts a plethora of health benefits that mature wheat and other common whole grains can't compete with. 

Here are just a few reasons why Freekeh has won me over from a nutritional standpoint:

1. It contains 4 times the fibre of brown rice. Dietary fibre is beneficial for many reasons including digestive health, stabilizing blood sugars, weight management, fullness and satiety, and heart health. The type of fibre in Freekeh also appears to act as a "prebiotic" which means that it fuels healthy bacteria or "probiotics" in the digestive tract.
2. It provides more protein than most grains, which means that you will feel fuller and more satisfied for a longer period of time after eating it.
3. Freekeh is considered to have a "low glycemic index," which means that it helps to control blood sugar levels and may play a role in weight management. 
4. It is free of chemicals, GMOs, additives and preservatives
5. Unlike other grains, Freekeh contains Lutein and Zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are very important for eye health.
6. Freekeh is a rich source of Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium and Zinc unlike other more well-known grains such as rice.

Is it gluten-free?

Some claim that Freekeh is safe for those who need to avoid gluten (i.e., those who have Celiac Disease), but the truth is, Freekeh is NOT a gluten-free grain (it's a form of wheat after all). There may be something unique about the immaturity of the wheat grain and the way that the grains are roasted (the roasting may "denature" the gluten) that may rendor it safe for those who avoid gluten. But until there is more research done, it's best to play it safe and avoid it if you follow a gluten-free diet. 

How to prepare it on the stovetop:

• Combine 5 cups of cold water (or broth or a combination of the two) with 2 cups of Freekeh, 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
• Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Cover with a tightly fitting lid, turn heat down and simmer for 10-15 minutes (cracked grain) and 40-45 minutes (whole grain)
• Uncover and test one of the grains to make sure that it is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed. 
• Serve on its own as a side dish, with a stir-fry or let cool and use as the base of a salad. You can also add Freekeh to soups, casseroles, or as a comforting and filling breakfast with fruit and yogurt.  

And if you're thinking about trying Freekeh for breakfast, read here about why eating breakfast will make your life way better.