Concept in Definition ABC

Spelled is a plant of the family of grasses and its scientific name is Triticum Spelta. It is a variety of traditional wheat and for this reason in some territories it is called green wheat or wild wheat.

Geographical origin and historical dimension

Regarding its geographical reference, it is located in present-day Iran, where it has been cultivated for approximately 7000 years. There is evidence to show that your culture it spread in the ancient world through Europe and Asia. In China this cereal was used in the elaboration of drinks, especially beer.

In the Middle Ages spelled was used to make bread for the wealthiest social classes, while the poorest consumed bread made from another cereal, rye. In the nineteenth century the cultivation of this variety of wheat began to decrease significantly, as farmers opted for a more economically profitable wheat.

Main features and their health benefits

The shape of the spelled is flattened, its color is tan and it is larger in relation to common wheat.

On comparison With common wheat, spelled contains a higher level of protein, minerals, vitamins and trace elements. On the other hand, this cereal contains eight essential amino acids and high levels of fiber, two very relevant aspects for people on a vegetarian diet. All these properties make spelled a fashionable food among those who want to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

Nutritionists recommend its consumption, as it is a cereal with multiple benefits: it favors digestion due to its high fiber content, it fights constipation because the gluten in spelled is easier to digest than common wheat, helps to lose weight and reduce blood pressure, improves elasticity of the skin, prevents the appearance of acne and serves as a repairer of the body's tissues.

Despite its obvious health benefits, spelled is contraindicated in people with celiac disease and, on the other hand, part, it can also be inadvisable for patients with digestive pathologies such as irritable bowel or other diseases.

Most common culinary uses

Apart from spelled bread, the culinary possibilities of this cereal are immense. On cake shop It can be combined with lemon to prepare a cake or a crepe, it is also used as an ingredient in salads and it can be combined with chicken or spaghetti.

Photos: Fotolia - Orlando Bellini / Gregory Lee