Stoneground flour

Stoneground flour is a type of flour that is produced by grinding grains between stones, in contrast to commercially produced flours which are typically ground using high speed rollers. The process of stone grinding has been in use for thousands of years and is believed to produce flour with a superior flavor and texture.

History

The use of stones to grind grains into flour is a practice that dates back to the Neolithic Age. Early humans would have used rocks to crush grains, and over time this process evolved into the use of millstones, which were circular stones used to grind grains in a mill. The use of millstones for grinding grains was common in Europe up until the 19th century, when it was largely replaced by steel roller mills.

Production

Stoneground flour is produced by grinding grains between two stones. The stones can be either vertical or horizontal, and are typically made from granite or other hard stones. The grains are fed into the center of the stones and are gradually pushed outward by the rotation of the stones. This process is slower and more gentle than the high-speed roller mills used in commercial flour production, and is believed to preserve more of the grain's natural nutrients.

Types

There are many types of stoneground flour, depending on the type of grain used. Some of the most common types include wheat flour, rye flour, and cornmeal. Each type of flour has its own unique flavor and texture, and can be used in a variety of different recipes.

Nutritional Value

Stoneground flour is often touted for its superior nutritional value. Because the grinding process is slower and more gentle, it is believed to preserve more of the grain's natural nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In addition, stoneground flour often contains more of the grain's germ and bran, which are rich in nutrients.

Uses

Stoneground flour can be used in a variety of recipes, including breads, pastries, and pastas. It is often used in artisanal baking for its unique flavor and texture.

See Also

• Millstone
• Whole grain
• Bread