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Farro
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Farro

Triticum dicoccum

Clinical Encyclopedia

Farro is an ancient grain known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, rich in fiber and protein, making it a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Scientific NameTriticum dicoccum
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories340 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber10g
Total86.0g
Protein
14g(16%)
Fats
2g(2%)
Carbohydrates
70g(81%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

Farro is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by promoting satiety.
It is a good source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
Rich in antioxidants, farro can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
The presence of essential vitamins and minerals in farro supports overall health, including heart health and metabolic function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid farro as it contains gluten.
!Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort due to its high fiber content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Farro can be cooked similarly to rice or pasta; it is best to rinse it before cooking and can be served warm or cold in salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose farro that is whole grain and free from any signs of moisture or pests. Look for a uniform color and a nutty aroma.

How to Store

Store farro in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked farro can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythFarro is the same as spelt.+
RealityWhile both are ancient grains, farro and spelt are different species with distinct nutritional profiles.
MythEating farro will cause weight gain.+
RealityFarro can be part of a balanced diet and may aid in weight management due to its high fiber content.
MythAll grains are unhealthy.+
RealityWhole grains like farro are nutritious and provide essential nutrients that support health.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Farro Salad

A vibrant salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Farro and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A hearty bowl filled with roasted seasonal vegetables and nutty farro, drizzled with tahini sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Water to thin tahini
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, mix tahini with lemon juice and enough water to reach desired consistency. Serve the farro topped with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini sauce.

Farro Breakfast Bowl with Avocado and Poached Egg

A nutritious breakfast bowl featuring creamy avocado, a perfectly poached egg, and chewy farro for a filling start to your day.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup cooked farro
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chili flakes for garnish
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add vinegar. Crack the egg into a small bowl and gently slide it into the water, poaching for 3-4 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, layer the cooked farro, sliced avocado, and the poached egg on top.
  3. 3. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Farro-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of farro, black beans, corn, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix cooked farro, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
  2. 2. Stuff each bell pepper half with the farro mixture and place in a baking dish. Top with cheese if desired.
  3. 3. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Farro and Spinach Risotto

A creamy risotto-like dish made with farro and fresh spinach, offering a nutritious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup farro
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add farro and stir for a minute, then gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring until absorbed.
  3. 3. When farro is tender, stir in spinach and Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Farro and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry made with farro and chickpeas, simmered in a spiced coconut milk sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add curry powder and cook for another minute.
  2. 2. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk, bringing to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  3. 3. Add cooked farro, season with salt, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Farro and Apple Salad with Walnuts

A refreshing salad combining sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and nutty farro, perfect for fall.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, mix cooked farro, diced apple, toasted walnuts, and arugula.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Farro and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup featuring farro and lentils, packed with vegetables and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in cooked farro and heat through before serving.

Farro and Berry Parfait

A delicious and healthy parfait layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and chewy farro for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, cooked farro, and mixed berries.
  2. 2. Drizzle honey over the top and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
  3. 3. Garnish with mint leaves and serve immediately.

Farro and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring roasted sweet potatoes, farro, and spices, perfect for a filling morning meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked farro
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potatoes, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Roast for 25-30 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
  3. 3. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables with cooked farro, heat through, and garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is farro?

Farro is an ancient grain that is a type of wheat, known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Is farro gluten-free?

No, farro contains gluten and is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

How do you cook farro?

To cook farro, rinse it under cold water, then boil it in water or broth for about 30 minutes until tender.

What are the health benefits of farro?

Farro is high in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, which can support digestion, heart health, and weight management.

Can farro be eaten cold?

Yes, farro can be served cold in salads or as a side dish.

How does farro compare to quinoa?

Farro is higher in fiber and protein than quinoa, but quinoa is gluten-free and has a different nutrient profile.

What dishes can I make with farro?

Farro can be used in salads, soups, risottos, and as a side dish or grain bowl base.

How should I store farro?

Store uncooked farro in a cool, dry place in an airtight container; cooked farro should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.