Pearled Spelt
Grains
Nutri-ScoreA

Pearled Spelt

Triticum spelta

Clinical Encyclopedia

Pearled spelt is a whole grain that has been hulled to remove the outer bran layer, making it quicker to cook while retaining its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits. It is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals.

Also known as:
spelt (general)dinkel (Germany)
Scientific NameTriticum spelta
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories340 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber10.7g
Total87.2g
Protein
14.6g(17%)
Fats
2.4g(3%)
Carbohydrates
70.2g(81%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.4 mg (33%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)4 mg (25%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate24 µg (6%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0 µgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron3.6 mg (20%)
Magnesium90 mg (22%)
Phosphorus300 mg (43%)
Potassium400 mg (11%)
Zinc2.5 mg (23%)
Copper0.3 mg (33%)
Manganese1.2 mg (60%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.7 µg

Health Benefits

Pearled spelt is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by promoting satiety.
It provides a good amount of protein and essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse pearled spelt under cold water before cooking. Boil in water or broth for about 30-40 minutes until tender. It can be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose pearled spelt that is whole and free from any signs of moisture or pests. Look for organic options when possible.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can also be refrigerated for extended shelf life.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aidAnti-inflammatory properties
Main Applications
Used in whole grain products
Incorporated into salads and soups
Bioactive Compounds
Beta-glucans

Known for their cholesterol-lowering effects and immune-boosting properties.

How to Consume
Cooked as a grain, added to salads, used in baking
Did you know?

"Spelt is one of the oldest cultivated grains, dating back over 9,000 years."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Spelt is gluten-free.
RealityReality: Spelt contains gluten and is not safe for those with celiac disease.
MythMyth: Pearled spelt has no nutritional value.
RealityReality: Pearled spelt is rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
MythMyth: Cooking pearled spelt is complicated.
RealityReality: Cooking pearled spelt is simple and requires only boiling for 30-40 minutes.

Healthy Recipes

Pearled Spelt Salad with Roasted Vegetables

A vibrant salad featuring nutty pearled spelt tossed with seasonal roasted vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup pearled spelt
  • 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Cook the pearled spelt according to package instructions and set aside.
  3. 3. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  4. 4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spelt, roasted vegetables, lemon juice, and zest. Mix well and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pearled Spelt and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto made with pearled spelt and earthy mushrooms, finished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup pearled spelt
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. 2. In a separate pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent, then add mushrooms and cook until soft.
  3. 3. Stir in the pearled spelt and gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the spelt is creamy and cooked through.
  4. 4. Finish with Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme before serving.

Spelt and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of pearled spelt, spinach, and feta cheese, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix the cooked spelt, spinach, feta, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. 4. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Pearled Spelt Breakfast Bowl

A hearty breakfast bowl featuring pearled spelt topped with yogurt, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer the cooked pearled spelt as the base.
  2. 2. Top with Greek yogurt and a generous amount of mixed berries.
  3. 3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle chia seeds on top before serving.

Pearled Spelt and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry made with pearled spelt and chickpeas, simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup pearled spelt
  • 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the pearled spelt according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, then add curry powder and cook for another minute.
  3. 3. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk, simmering for 15 minutes.
  4. 4. Add the cooked spelt, mix well, and season with salt before serving.

Pearled Spelt and Beet Salad

A refreshing salad combining roasted beets, pearled spelt, and arugula, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 2 medium beets (roasted and diced)
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spelt, roasted beets, and arugula.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently before serving.

Spelt and Lentil Veggie Burgers

Nutritious veggie burgers made with pearled spelt and lentils, packed with flavor and perfect for grilling.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1/2 onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 carrot (grated)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked spelt, lentils, onion, carrot, breadcrumbs, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill the patties for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and serve on whole-grain buns.

Pearled Spelt Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring pearled spelt and a variety of fresh vegetables, tossed in a savory soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Stir in the cooked spelt and soy sauce, mixing well. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Pearled Spelt and Apple Porridge

A warm and comforting porridge made with pearled spelt, topped with sautéed apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup pearled spelt
  • 3 cups almond milk
  • 1 apple (diced)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Chopped nuts for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine pearled spelt and almond milk, cooking over medium heat until creamy.
  2. 2. In a separate pan, sauté diced apple with maple syrup and cinnamon until soft.
  3. 3. Serve the porridge topped with the sautéed apples and chopped nuts.

Spelt and Quinoa Tabouli

A fresh twist on traditional tabouli, combining pearled spelt and quinoa with parsley, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pearled spelt
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup parsley (chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 lemon (juice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked spelt, quinoa, parsley, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is pearled spelt gluten-free?

No, pearled spelt contains gluten and is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How do I cook pearled spelt?

Rinse it under cold water, then boil in water or broth for 30-40 minutes until tender.

What are the health benefits of pearled spelt?

It is high in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

Can I use pearled spelt in baking?

Yes, it can be used in baking, but it may require adjustments to the liquid content in recipes.

How does pearled spelt compare to regular wheat?

Pearled spelt has a nuttier flavor and higher nutritional content compared to regular wheat.

Is pearled spelt suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is a great source of plant-based protein and can be included in vegetarian diets.

What is the glycemic index of pearled spelt?

The glycemic index of pearled spelt is approximately 45, making it a moderate option for blood sugar control.

How should I store pearled spelt?

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.