Buckwheat flour is a type of flour made from ground buckwheat groats, the seeds of the buckwheat plant. Despite its name, buckwheat is not a type of wheat, and it is naturally gluten-free. Buckwheat flour is known for its distinctive earthy flavor and is commonly used in both traditional and gluten-free cooking.
Compare table for Buckwheat:
Flour | Calories | Fat | SaturatedFat | Carbs | Sugar | Fibre | Protein | Iron |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Buckwheat (100g) | 335 kcal | 3.1 g | 0.7 g | 71 g | 2.6 g | 10 g | 13 g | 4.06 mg |
Almond (100g) | 571 kcal | 50 g | 3.6 g | 21 g | 7.1 g | 14 g | 21 g | 3.57 mg |
Brown rice (100g) | 363 kcal | 2.8 g | 0.6 g | 76 g | 0.7 g | 4.6 g | 7.2 g | 1.98 mg |
Chia Seeds (100g) | 486 kcal | 30.7 g | 3.3 g | 42.1 g | 0.01 g | 34.4 g | 16.5 g | 7.7 mg |
Chickpea (100g) | 387 kcal | 7 g | 0.6 g | 57 g | 0.5 g | 11 g | 22 g | 5 mg |
Coconut (100g) | 400 kcal | 13 g | 13 g | 60 g | 20 g | 33 g | 20 g | 6.67 mg |
Corn (100g) | 361 kcal | 3.9 g | 0.5 g | 76.8 g | 0.6 g | 7.3 g | 6.9 g | 2.4 mg |
Flaxseed (100g) | 534 kcal | 42 g | 4 g | 29 g | 2 g | 28 g | 18 g | 5 mg |
Millet (100g) | 375 kcal | 3.5 g | 0.7 g | 74 g | 1 g | 7 g | 11 g | 2.5 mg |
Oats (100g) | 389 kcal | 0.6 g | 1.2 g | 66.3 g | 0.9 g | 10.6 g | 16.9 g | 4.7 mg |
Psyllium husk (100g) | 354 kcal | 0.6 g | 0.1 g | 88 g | 0.5 g | 80 g | 1.5 g | 16 mg |
Quinoa (100g) | 368 kcal | 7.5 g | 1.6 g | 69 g | 3.6 g | 7 g | 10 g | 4.8 mg |
Red lentils (100g) | 116 kcal | 0.4 g | 0.1 g | 20 g | 1.8 g | 7.9 g | 9 g | 3.3 mg |
Semolina (100g) | 357 kcal | 1.2 g | 0.7 g | 74 g | 2.4 g | 4.8 g | 12 g | 3.43 mg |
Soya (defatted) (100g) | 330 kcal | 1.2 g | 0.8 g | 38.4 g | 18.9 g | 17.5 g | 47 g | 9.2 mg |
Tapioca (100g) | 349 kcal | 0.2 g | 0.1 g | 85 g | 3.5 g | 1.2 g | 0.6 g | 1 mg |
White rice (100g) | 359 kcal | 1.3 g | 0.1 g | 80 g | 0.1 g | 0.5 g | 6.9 g | 0.22 mg |
White wheat (100g) | 364 kcal | 1 g | 0.2 g | 76 g | 0.3 g | 2.7 g | 10 g | 1.17 mg |
Whole grain wheat (100g) | 340 kcal | 2.5 g | 0.4 g | 72 g | 0.4 g | 11 g | 13 g | 3.6 mg |
Here are some key characteristics and features of buckwheat flour:
Gluten-Free:
- Buckwheat flour is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for individuals with celiac disease or those following a gluten-free diet.
Distinctive Flavor:
- Buckwheat flour has a robust, earthy, and nutty flavor, which adds a unique taste to baked goods. This flavor can be more pronounced than that of other gluten-free flours.
Whole Grain:
- Buckwheat is considered a whole grain, and its flour retains the nutritional benefits of the entire groat. It contains essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium and manganese.
Protein Content:
- Buckwheat flour is relatively high in protein compared to many other gluten-free flours. The protein in buckwheat is of good quality, containing all essential amino acids.
Versatility:
- Buckwheat flour is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, including pancakes, waffles, bread, muffins, and noodles. It is often used in combination with other gluten-free flours to achieve the desired texture in baking.
Texture:
- Buckwheat flour has a fine texture but can impart a denser quality to baked goods. It is advisable to blend it with other flours or ingredients to achieve the desired texture in recipes.
Traditional Uses:
- Buckwheat is a staple in many cuisines worldwide. In addition to its use in baking, buckwheat flour is commonly used to make soba noodles in Japanese cuisine and blinis in Eastern European cuisines.
Nutritional Profile:
- Buckwheat is rich in antioxidants, particularly rutin, which has potential health benefits. It also provides dietary fiber, which can contribute to digestive health.
Dark Color:
- Buckwheat flour typically has a darker color, ranging from light brown to grayish-brown, depending on the milling process and the specific type of buckwheat used.
Storage:
- Like other flours, buckwheat flour should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Some people prefer to store it in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf life.