Is time travel the solution to consuming ancient grains?
Haha! That would be fun, however, time travel isn’t necessary to experience ancient grains. Fortunately, these nutritious treasures have endured throughout the centuries.
If you’re having trouble finding grains like TEFF, KAMUT, SORGHUM, and SPELT locally or online, we have a few recommendations for reliable places where you should be able to find them:
Shop Ancient Grains in Ethnic or Specialty Markets
In Some regions, even if mainstream grocery stores don’t stock ancient grains, ethnic markets may have them, particularly those specializing in:
Ethiopian or Eritrean stores
Great for finding teff.Asian or Indian markets: Sorghum and millet are often available as they are staples in some cuisines.
Middle Eastern markets
These can sometimes offer freekeh, a type of ancient wheat that shares some similarities with spelt or kamut.
Amazon
It’s a good starting point for specialty grains. You can find organic versions of these grains, often in bulk, which could save you money in the long run. Just make sure to read reviews to verify quality.
Order Online from International Retailers
If shipping costs and import regulations allow, look for international online retailers that deliver to your country. Some options include:
- iHerb: Delivers globally and offers various grains like spelt and sorghum.
- Alibaba or AliExpress: Useful for sourcing ingredients like teff or sorghum directly from producers.
- Online Bulk Stores: Many bulk sellers offer international shipping for ancient grains in larger quantities.
Supplement with Nutrient-Rich Seeds
If grains are difficult to find, incorporating nutrient-rich seeds like chia, flaxseed, or hemp can help boost the nutritional profile of your diet in similar ways to ancient grains. These seeds are often easier to find and can provide protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids.
Is There a Benefit Compared to Regular Grains or Is This Just for Variety?
Ancient grains like SORGHUM, FONIO, SPELT or KAMUT do offer several nutritional and ecological benefits compared to more modern, refined grains like white rice or standard wheat. However, some of the appeal is also about variety and tradition.
Here’s a breakdown:
Incorporate Ancient Grains into Your Life Today
Ancient grains offer more than just nutrition—they connect us to centuries of culinary tradition. Whether you’re exploring new flavors, seeking nutritional variety, or aiming for a more sustainable diet, these grains have something to offer.
So, why not experiment with teff, quinoa, kamut, or spelt in your next meal? The best part is, you don’t need a time machine—just a willingness to explore and embrace new ingredients.