Friday Food Fact: Buckwheat Pancakes…Tasty and Good for You!!

So is food cooked with Buckwheat really healthier for you, or do people just like the quirky name?  If you’re over 50, my mom says the name “Buckwheat” may remind you of  the “Our Gang/Little Rascals” TV show.

Buckwheat is a healthy alternative to more common grains and nuts

Buckwheat is not a gluten or a wheat or grain of any kind. Buckwheat is actually a seed from the rhubarb family.  It’s high in fiber, protein, iron and magnesium, yet low in calories. (Be sure to check with your doctor, though, if you have wheat allergies or Celiacs disease.) This versatile seed is brimming with antioxidants and has a  nutty flavor.

You can find buckwheat two ways, “hulled” which is pale greenish/white in color and resembles tiny hearts, or toasted Buckwheat known as kashi which is dark brown with an earthy flavor.  They are fast cooking, don’t require any soaking.  Just rinse and drain.  Organic Buckwheat is believed to be more nutritious and is best to store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

You might be surprised to learn you can substitute Buckwheat in pancakes or oatmeal, use it instead of rice, or mix in meat loaf or meatballs as a binder to help hold the ingredients together.  You can even use it to make a dessert topping. Try this recipe for a healthy breakfast, especially if you are on the go.  Make up a batch in advance….Enjoy.

Meanwhile, you might get a kick out of this “Buckwheat cakes” video.