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Steel-Cut Emmer
Grains
Nutri-ScoreA

Steel-Cut Emmer

Triticum dicoccum

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steel-cut emmer is a whole grain that is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional value and fiber content. It is known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Emmer WheatFarro
Scientific NameTriticum dicoccum
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber8g
Total37.0g
Protein
5.5g(15%)
Fats
1.5g(4%)
Carbohydrates
30g(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)2 mg (13%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate30 mcg (8%)
Vitamin K2 mcg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 mcgVitamin A: 0 mcgVitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium40 mg (10%)
Phosphorus80 mg (11%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese1 mg (50%)
Selenium5 mcg (9%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, steel-cut emmer aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Contains essential nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and energy metabolism.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

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

How to Prepare & Consume

To prepare steel-cut emmer, rinse the grains under cold water, then cook in boiling water or broth for about 20-30 minutes until tender. It can be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose steel-cut emmer that is whole grain and free from any signs of moisture or pests.

How to Store

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

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aidNutrient-dense
Main Applications
Promoting digestive health
Providing sustained energy
Bioactive Compounds
Beta-glucans

Known for their cholesterol-lowering effects and immune system support.

How to Consume
Cooked as a grain dishIn saladsAs porridge
Did you know?

"Emmer is one of the oldest cultivated grains, dating back to ancient civilizations."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Steel-cut emmer is the same as regular emmer.
RealityReality: Steel-cut emmer is less processed and retains more nutrients compared to regular emmer.
MythMyth: All whole grains are gluten-free.
RealityReality: Many whole grains, including emmer, contain gluten.
MythMyth: Steel-cut grains take too long to cook.
RealityReality: While they take longer than instant grains, they can be cooked in about 20-30 minutes.

Healthy Recipes

Savory Steel-Cut Emmer Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a hearty breakfast bowl featuring steel-cut emmer, sautéed greens, and a poached egg for a nutritious boost.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut emmer
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, bring water to a boil, then add steel-cut emmer and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add kale, and sauté until wilted, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Poach the eggs in simmering water for 3-4 minutes, then assemble the bowl with emmer, sautéed kale, and a poached egg on top. Season with salt and pepper.

Steel-Cut Emmer Salad with Roasted Vegetables

A vibrant salad combining nutty steel-cut emmer with roasted seasonal vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine cooked steel-cut emmer and roasted vegetables.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss gently, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Steel-Cut Emmer and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto made with steel-cut emmer and earthy mushrooms, perfect for a comforting yet healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut emmer
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat vegetable broth and keep warm over low heat.
  2. 2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil, add onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until soft.
  3. 3. Stir in steel-cut emmer, then gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the emmer is creamy and tender, about 30-35 minutes.

Steel-Cut Emmer Veggie Burgers

Delicious and nutritious veggie burgers made with steel-cut emmer, black beans, and spices, perfect for grilling.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash black beans and mix in cooked steel-cut emmer, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill or pan-fry the patties for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and serve on whole-grain buns with your favorite toppings.

Steel-Cut Emmer Porridge with Berries

A warm and comforting breakfast porridge made with steel-cut emmer, topped with fresh berries and nuts for added nutrition.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut emmer
  • 4 cups almond milk
  • 1 cup mixed berries
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, combine steel-cut emmer and almond milk, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until creamy.
  2. 2. Stir in honey or maple syrup to sweeten.
  3. 3. Serve warm, topped with fresh berries and chopped nuts.

Steel-Cut Emmer Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring steel-cut emmer, colorful vegetables, and a savory soy sauce glaze.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  2. 2. Add cooked steel-cut emmer, soy sauce, and ginger, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Steel-Cut Emmer and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup combining steel-cut emmer and lentils, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut emmer
  • 1 cup lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and carrots until soft. Add lentils, steel-cut emmer, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils and emmer are tender.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Steel-Cut Emmer Tabbouleh

A refreshing twist on traditional tabbouleh, using steel-cut emmer as a base, packed with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 1 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mint, chopped
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked steel-cut emmer, parsley, mint, tomato, and cucumber.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
  3. 3. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light meal.

Steel-Cut Emmer and Chickpea Bowl

A protein-packed bowl featuring steel-cut emmer, roasted chickpeas, and a tahini dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve cooked steel-cut emmer topped with roasted chickpeas and drizzled with tahini dressing.

Steel-Cut Emmer Fruit Salad

A refreshing fruit salad with steel-cut emmer, seasonal fruits, and a light honey-lime dressing, perfect for a healthy dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut emmer
  • 2 cups mixed seasonal fruits (berries, melon, kiwi)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked steel-cut emmer and mixed fruits.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice, then drizzle over the fruit mixture.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is steel-cut emmer?

Steel-cut emmer is a whole grain made from emmer wheat that has been cut into pieces, offering a chewy texture and nutty flavor.

How do I cook steel-cut emmer?

Cook steel-cut emmer by boiling it in water or broth for 20-30 minutes until tender.

Is steel-cut emmer gluten-free?

No, steel-cut emmer contains gluten and is not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

What are the health benefits of steel-cut emmer?

It is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can aid digestion and provide sustained energy.

Can I use steel-cut emmer in baking?

Yes, you can incorporate steel-cut emmer into baked goods for added texture and nutrition.

How should I store steel-cut emmer?

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

What is the difference between steel-cut emmer and regular emmer?

Steel-cut emmer is less processed than regular emmer, retaining more nutrients and fiber.

Can I soak steel-cut emmer before cooking?

Soaking can reduce cooking time, but it is not necessary for steel-cut emmer.