Farro
Farro is said to have sustained the Romans as they conquered the world 7,000 years ago. Legend had it that Julius Caesar himself brought it to Italy after invading Egypt in 30 B.C. Known as the Pharoah's wheat because it was the only wheat cultivated in pharoanic times, this nutritious, high-energy grain was a staple in Roman society.
Also known as emmer wheat, farro (triticum dicoccon) is the Italian name for this hulled ancient mother grain that gave rise to modern wheat. Often confused with spelt they are two distinct, though closely related grains. Armed with more than twice the protein and fiber of modern wheat, each grain of farro packs a nutritious punch. Not only is it rich in magnesium, niacin, zinc and iron, it also provides a complete protein source when combined with legumes. Farro has a low gluten content with more fragile gluten molecules than those of modern wheat, making it easier to digest, and sometimes tolerable for many gluten-intolerant individuals. An excellent source of whole grains and complex carbohydrates, farro can play a significant role in maintaining healthy body weight, and reducing diabetes, heart disease, and cardiovascular disease risk, as well as helping to prevent certain forms of cancer.
