Farro Out: What You Should Know About Farro
By Sara Butler
Move over quinoa because farro is here! Farro is a grain that has been gaining popularity lately. If you’ve not tried it yet, there are plenty of reasons why you should give this healthy grain a go. Here’s all you need to know about farro and a few reasons you’re going to love it!
What is Farro?
Farro isn’t exactly a newcomer on the grain stage. Farro dates all the back to 17,000 B.C. and has been enjoyed by people throughout history, including Julius Ceasar. Maybe he was munching on this versatile grain when he crossed the Rubicon -- you never know!
As you may or may not have noticed, ancient grains are making a big comeback and people are becoming more and more interested in their health benefits. Farro is a carbohydrate, but it’s also filled with protein, fiber, magnesium, iron, zinc and it tastes pretty darn good, too.
It’s Like Rice
Quinoa has been the reigning queen of ancient grains over the last few years, but many people don’t enjoy its texture. Farro is different because it has a nutty flavor as well as a texture similar to brown rice. The one thing about farro that may interest those of you who are all thumbs in the kitchen is that it’s pretty forgiving if you overcook it. It holds its texture, so it will still turn out OK if left on the stove a little too long.
It’s High in Protein
Farro is higher in protein than quinoa, too. A quarter cup of quinoa has six grams of protein, but the same serving of farro has seven grams. That’s more protein than in one egg, and everyone knows what a perfect protein source eggs are!
It Fills You Up
Thanks to the dose of fiber in farro, it fills you up! Whole farro, not the pearled kind, has seven grams of fiber in a quarter cup serving. For those of you counting, that’s over 25 percent of your daily recommended intake of fiber.
Farro Fights … Fatigue
Many people don’t get enough iron in their diets, which can lead you to feeling less than energized. You need iron for oxygen circulation in your blood, so not getting enough of it will make you feel tired, slow muscle growth and even leave you with a headache. Farro is iron-rich, so adding it into your diet can help you to get the iron you just might be lacking, adding a little pep to your step.
Are you convinced to give farro a try yet? You can easily find it at the supermarket, so next time you’re there give it a whirl and see what you think!