What are Ancient Grains?
Ancient grains are a group of grains and pseudo-cereals that have remained largely unchanged over the last several hundred years. Unlike modern wheat, they have not been selectively bred or heavily processed.
Common examples include quinoa, amaranth, millet, sorghum, teff, Buckwheat, spelt, and einkorn. These grains are often prized for their rich nutritional profile, offering higher levels of protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to refined grains.
Ancient grains are also naturally gluten-free (except for some like spelt and farro), making them a popular choice in wholesome, plant-based, and allergen-conscious diets.
Quinoa
Complete plant protein which aids muscle repair, digestion, and long-lasting energy. Naturally gluten-free and easy to digest.
Profile
|
Flavour: Mildly nutty, earthy, slightly grassy Texture: Fine, soft, slightly gritty Best uses: Gluten-free porridge, Baking (breads, muffins), Pancakes, Crackers Pairs well with: Cocoa, Vanilla, Citrus zest, Nuts |
Amaranth
High in protein and rich in lysine, calcium, and iron. Amaranth supports muscle recovery, strong bones, and immune function. Its nutty, earthy flavor makes it a nutrient-dense addition to any diet.
Profile
|
Flavour: Earthy, slightly peppery, grassy Texture: Dense, fine flour Best uses: Porridge, Flatbreads, Muffins Pairs well with: Warming spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), Honey, Dried Fruit |
Millet
A light, gluten-free grain that’s gentle on digestion and full of B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. Millet supports heart health and stable energy, making it ideal for daily nourishment.
Profile
|
Flavour: Mild, slightly sweet, corn-like Texture: Fine, smooth, low moisture Best uses: Porridge, Pancakes, Quick Breads Pairs well with: Apples, dates, cardamom, Cinnamon |
Sorghum
Fibre-rich and antioxidant-packed, Sorghum helps regulate blood sugar, boost gut health, and deliver slow-burning energy. Naturally gluten-free with a mildly sweet, earthy flavor.
Profile
|
Flavour: Neutral to earthy, mild sweetness |
Teff
Tiny but nutrient-dense, Teff is rich in iron, protein, calcium, and resistant starch. It promotes endurance, bone strength, and digestive health. Naturally gluten-free with a mild, nutty flavor.
Profile
|
Flavour: Rich, nutty, with molasses-like sweetness Texture: Very fine, soft Best uses: Porridge, Ethiopian Injera, Brownies, Cookies, Gluten-free Pancakes Pairs well with: Cocoa, Vanilla, Coffee, Dates, Hazelnut |
Farro (contains gluten)
An ancient wheat with a chewy texture and nutty taste. Farro is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, helping reduce inflammation and supporting sustained energy and fullness.
Profile
|
Flavour: Hearty, nutty, slightly sweet Texture: Medium-fine grind, rustic Best uses: Porridge, Artisan Breads, Pasta, Crackers Pairs well with: Fenugreek, Cinnamon, Nuts & Seeds, Ginger |
Spelt (contains gluten)
A heritage grain with more protein and easier digestibility than modern wheat. Spelt is rich in fibre, B vitamins, and iron great for energy, satiety, and muscle support.
Profile
|
Flavour: Mildly sweet, nutty, slightly wheaty Texture: Soft, smooth Best uses: Porridge, Breads, Pasta (has gluten but gentler impact) Pairs well with: Pear, Cinnamon, Walnuts, Honey |
Einkorn (contains gluten)
The original wheat variety, Einkorn has a simpler genetic structure and a superior nutrient profile. Packed with protein, lutein, and antioxidants, it supports eye health, energy, and immune function.
Profile
|
Flavour: Buttery, soft nutty notes, mild sweetness Texture: Silky, slightly golden flour Best uses: Porridge, Muffins, Biscuits, Pancakes, Ancient-style Breads Pairs well with: Vanilla, Citrus, Berries, Maple, Fenugreek |
Emmer (contains gluten)
One of the earliest cultivated grains, Emmer is prized for its rustic flavor and rich nutrition. Containing gluten, it offers a wholesome alternative to modern wheat, with a simpler structure and a naturally higher nutrient density. Packed with protein, antioxidants, and minerals, it supports energy, strength, and overall well-being while bringing an authentic ancient character to your recipes.
Profile
|
Flavour: Earthy and nutty with subtle sweetness Texture: Coarse, rustic flour with golden-brown tones Best uses: Porridge, Hearty breads, Flatbreads Pairs well with: Ginger, Honey, Dried Fruits, All Spice |
Buckwheat (gluten-free despite the name)
A pseudograin rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and rutin a powerful flavonoid for heart health. Buckwheat supports healthy circulation, energy, and digestion, with a slightly nutty taste.
Profile
|
Flavour: Strong, earthy, nutty, slightly bitter Texture: Fine, dark flour Best uses: Porridge, Crepes, Soba noodles, Pancakes, Quick Breads Pairs well with: Blueberries, chocolate, Maple Syrup, Fenugreek, Cinnamon |
Kamut (contains gluten)
Kamut is an ancient grain known for its rich, buttery flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Higher in protein and essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and magnesium than modern wheat, Many people find Kamut easier to digest than modern wheat, though it does contain gluten. Its slow-digesting carbs and high nutrient density make it a wholesome, energizing choice for sustained wellness.
Profile
|
Flavour: Sweet, rich, buttery, nutty |
Chickpea Flour
Chickpea flour, made from ground chickpeas, is a gluten-free, nutrient-dense flour rich in protein, fibre, iron, and folate. It supports digestion, heart health, and blood sugar control, while promoting fullness and energy. Ideal for vegan, gluten-free, and weight-conscious diets, it's widely used in baking, batters, and as a plant-based egg substitute.
Profile
|
Flavour: Earthy, slightly bitter raw; nutty when cooked |
Alternative products
Hemp Seeds (gluten-free)
A complete plant protein with ideal omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid balance. Hemp seeds promote muscle recovery, brain health, and skin vitality. Rich in magnesium, zinc, and iron, they add a creamy, nutty richness to blends.|
Flavour: Earthy, nutty, mildly grassy Texture: Coarse, dry, dark green Best uses: Protein boosts in Porridge, Smoothies, Energy bars Pairs well with: Cacao, Banana, Coconut, Almonds |
Almond Flour (gluten-free)
Naturally gluten-free and nutrient-rich, Almond Flour is made from finely ground organic almonds. Soft, delicate, and lightly sweet, it’s packed with plant-based protein, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats that support energy, satiety, and overall well-being. Perfect for porridge, pancakes, and wholesome baking, it adds both nutrition and a rich, nutty flavor.|
Flavour: Mildly sweet with a buttery, nutty richness Texture: Soft, fine, and naturally moist Best uses: Porridge mix-ins, Pancakes and Gluten-Free Baking Pairs well with: Cocoa, Berries, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Honey |
