Wheat berry

Wheat Berry

A wheat berry or wheatberry is a whole wheat kernel, composed of the bran, germ, and endosperm, without the husk. Botanically, it is a type of fruit called a caryopsis. Wheat berries are a staple in diets worldwide due to their high nutrition content.

Description

Wheat berries are the whole grain form of wheat, the whole, complete grain before it has undergone any processing. They're a high-fiber whole grain, containing the bran, germ, and endosperm of the wheat kernel. They have a tan to reddish-brown color and are available as either a hard or soft processed grain. They are often added to salads or baked into bread to add a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Value

Wheat berries are packed with nutrients and are one of the richest sources of dietary fiber. Their high fiber content helps prevent constipation and promote a healthy digestive tract. They are also a good source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, calcium, iron, and potassium.

Culinary Uses

Wheat berries have a sweet, nutty flavor and are used in various culinary applications. They can be cooked as a whole grain, ground into a flour for baking, sprouted for use in salads, or used as a base for a stir-fry. They are also commonly used in Middle Eastern dishes such as tabbouleh and kibbeh.

Cultivation

Wheat berries grow in the head of the wheat plant. The wheat plant is an annual that grows to a height of 2-4 feet. The plant prefers a well-drained fertile soil and a sunny position. It is not frost tender and can be grown in a wide range of climates.

See Also

• Whole grain
• Wheat
• Cereal
• Bran
• Endosperm
• Germ (botany)

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