What is buckwheat?
Buckwheat actually comes from the seeds of a plant distantly related to rhubarb and is neither related to wheat, nor, technically, a grain. It is usually found in ground form, but can also be bought as wholegrain groats, cracked as flakes or cereal, and in processed foods such as pasta. Delicious in salads, it lends itself well to being mixed with other pseudo-grains such as quinoa. Buckwheat flour can be added to pancakes, muffins, blinis and soba noodles. Healthwise, buckwheat is a good source of protein, containing all the essential amino acids. It is an excellent source of manganese and magnesium and a good source of selenium, niacin, folate, iron, zinc, copper and phosphorus. It is also rich in phytochemicals and is gluten free.
See the health benefits of buckwheat.
How to prepare buckwheat
Always make sure that the hulled buckwheat groats have been roasted or toasted and then rinsed before cooking.
How to cook buckwheat
Place the toasted buckwheat in a pan with two parts water to one part buckwheat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 - 12 minutes until tender, then drain off any excess liquid.
Discover how to cook buckwheat and our buckwheat recipes.
How to store buckwheat
Maximise the life of buckwheat by storing it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Alternatives to buckwheat
Try quinoa as an alternative.
