Although when we think of rye we typically think of the bread cooked from it or, at least here at Brooks Grain, the brew made with it, eating rye berries and using them for cooking and baking is a healthful option in the kitchen. Rye has a very hearty and distinct flavor profile which makes it all the better to incorporate into your cooking and baking routines. As a rye grain supplier, we like to share our love of these lesser used grains and differing ways to build them into your life.

The Why of Rye

In addition to the intriguing flavor of rye, it also offers some pretty heady health benefits. Just one cup of rye berries packs 75 percent of your daily value of manganese, which is an essential nutrient for bone health. Rye berries also contain selenium, phosphorus, magnesium, protein, and both soluble and insoluble fiber. Fiber makes your feel fuller which can aid in weight loss pursuits. Much of this nutrient powerhouse transfers into rye flour since the germ and bran (which is where the good stuff lives) isn’t easily separated from the endosperm of the grain. All in all, inviting rye into your kitchen is a great choice.

The How of Rye

Besides using rye flour to make breads, cookies, or whatever else you’re baking and cooking that requires flour, you can actually cook the raw berries to eat as a nutritious and simple snack. Here’s how:

For every cup of grain, add four cups of water to a pot. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the berries are tender. This should take about an hour. If you decide you like the berries a little more tender, soak the grain overnight and cook them for closer to two or three hours. Play with the soak and cook times until you have the texture you prefer and then snack away!

Rye Grain Supplier: Brooks Grain

For all of your rye grain supplier needs and for answer to any questions, drop us a line here at Brooks Grain. In the meantime, enjoy your rye!