If you're looking for a healthy and gluten-free flour that can add a unique flavor and texture to your recipes, black buckwheat flour is worth considering. Milled from the seeds of the buckwheat plant, this flour has a mild nutty taste and a distinctive black speckled appearance that makes it stand out in baked goods.
Buckwheat, despite its name, is not a cereal grain but a seed. It is related to rhubarb, sorrel, and dock and is often cultivated in cooler climates. Buckwheat is also one of the few plant sources of complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that our body needs. This makes it a valuable ingredient for vegetarians and vegans.
Black buckwheat flour is rich in nutrients such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins. It is also low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those who are watching their weight. The absence of gluten in buckwheat flour makes it a popular choice for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
You can use black buckwheat flour in a variety of recipes, from pancakes and waffles to biscuits and bread. Its unique flavor pairs well with savory ingredients such as herbs, cheese, and vegetables, but it can also add depth to sweet dishes such as cakes and cookies.
Here are some black buckwheat flour recipes that you can try at home:
1. Black Buckwheat Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black buckwheat flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the black buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the buttermilk and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Spoon batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until the other side is golden brown.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings.
2. Black Buckwheat Scones
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black buckwheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- Turbinado sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the black buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.
4. Add the milk and egg and stir until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly.
6. Shape the dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick, and cut into wedges.
7. Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Serve warm with butter and jam.
In conclusion, black buckwheat flour is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can add a unique touch to your cooking and baking. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free option or just want to try something new, give black buckwheat flour a try in your recipes.