One of the World’s Ancient Grains has Gone Modern
Teff grains have made their way into modern cooking. These ancient grains trace their roots back to the Ethiopian Empire and are probably the tiniest edible grains on earth. In fact, this tasty little grain is only about the size of a poppy seed.
The seed of a plant known as lovegrass, teff serves as a staple in Ethiopia but is rapidly making its way into the U.S. vegan market as well.
Today it takes its place alongside quinoa, spelt and millet as a staple of many vegan diets. Gluten-free and highly nutritious, teff lends a mildly nutty flavor to many dishes. While teff traditionally forms the base of the fermented pancake-like bread injera, it also now finds its way into stews, stuffings, and pilaf – or added to smoothies or gravies and sauces.
Ground into flour, we find teff useful for many baked goods, like cookies, pie crusts, breads and pancakes. In addition, whole teff can be served steamed, boiled or baked.
Quick and Easy to Cook
Teff cooks up quickly and easily. Even more important, teff makes a versatile addition to your meal. Simply cook 1 cup grain for about 20 minutes with 3 cups water or stock. Season with cinnamon, ginger, garlic, cardamom, chilies, basil or cilantro and you have a main course or tasty side dish.
A Healthy Addition to Your Diet
Gluten free teff packs protein, amino acids, iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium into your diet. In fact, you will find more calcium here than in other grains – the calcium in a cup of cooked teff is close to that of a half cup of cooked spinach.
Teff boasts a particular type of carbohydrates known as resistant starches. Because they register high in dietary fiber, these resistant starches may help you manage blood sugar, protect your colon and control weight.
Find Teff at Zinman’s
Worldwide, much of this grain product comes from Ethiopia and Eritrea. Zinman’s, however, comes to us from Idaho and is available for sale through our Grainworks. In fact, if you would like to order some of this tasty and versatile grain right now, just visit our Grainworks page.