Butternut and sorghum salad
Butternut and sorghum salad

Sorghum

Sorghum is a cereal grain that originated in Asia and Africa where it has been consumed for centuries. It is now grown across the world in a wide range of temperatures and altitudes. Sorghum is high in dietary fibre and is naturally gluten free thereby making it an excellent alternative for people with gluten-related allergies. It is rich in nutrients including a few B vitamins and is also a good source of protein.

Spiced paneer and freekeh salad
Spiced paneer and freekeh salad

Freekeh

Freekeh has been a staple grain in the Middle East long before it gained popularity in Western cuisine. It is wheat that is harvested while young and green and it has a distinct nutty flavour.

It is rich in protein and fibre and it is also high in zinc and iron, which are both important for bone and muscle health. Cracked freekeh has a shorter cooking time than whole freekeh, but it retains the same nutritional content.

Roasted beetroot and bulgur salad with za'atar goat's cheese balls
Roasted beetroot and bulgur salad with za'atar goat's cheese balls

Bulgur

Bulgur wheat originated in the Levant where it continues to be widely eaten. It is a cereal grain derived from cracked whole-grain kernels of wheat that are parboiled and dried before being packed. It is a good source of fibre and essential nutrients like magnesium and iron. Several studies have revealed that including foods such as bulgur in your diet can improve gut health and promote weight loss.

Courgette and coriander kamut salad with preserved lemon dressing
Courgette and coriander kamut salad with preserved lemon dressing

Kamut

Kamut or khorasan wheat is an ancient grain that is twice the size of modern-day wheat. It has a higher nutritional profile than common wheat, containing up to 40 per cent more protein. It is also known as the ‘high energy grain’ because it is has a high percentage of lipids, which release more energy than refined carbohydrates. Add it to soups, stir-fries and salads or use it as a replacement for regular breakfast oats.

Make it at home