Spelt Berries

Spelt is an excellent choice for anyone wishing to experiment with whole grain cookery.  It is similar to wheat, its distant cousin, but has a sweeter flavor, and is higher in protein, fiber and B vitamins.  It is also more soluble in water so is more easily digested.  Some people with wheat allergies are able to better tolerate spelt, but it does contain gluten so is not suitable for anyone on a gluten-free diet.

Spelt berries can be cooked and used as you would use rice - as a pilaf, or added to soups and salads. Use 1 cup spelt berries and 3 cups liquid (water or broth) and cook for 60-90 minutes; cooking time can be shortened by soaking the berries overnight.  Experiment with different combinations of veggies and herbs mixed with cooked spelt berries as a side dish.

Also, check out Chez Fayne's recipe for Stuffed Acorn Squash.