Wheat berry facts for kids

Uncooked wheat berries

A wheat berry is simply a whole kernel of wheat. Think of it like a tiny, complete package of wheat! It still has all its important parts: the bran (the outer layer), the germ (the part that could grow into a new plant), and the endosperm (the starchy inside). It's just missing its outer protective cover, called the husk.

Wheat berries are a tan or reddish-brown color. You can find them as either "hard" or "soft" grains, which refers to how much protein they have. They are often added to salads or baked into bread to give them a nice, chewy texture. If you grind up wheat berries, you get whole-wheat flour, which is used to make all sorts of yummy baked goods.

What Are Wheat Berries?

Wheat berries are a type of grain that comes from the wheat plant. They are the whole, unprocessed seeds of the plant. Because they contain all parts of the original kernel, they are packed with nutrients.

What's Inside a Wheat Berry?

Each wheat berry has three main parts:

• Bran: This is the tough outer layer. It's full of fiber, which is good for your digestion.
• Germ: This is the tiny part inside that would sprout into a new wheat plant if planted. It contains lots of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
• Endosperm: This is the biggest part of the wheat berry. It's mostly made of carbohydrates, which give you energy.

Botanists, who study plants, call a wheat berry a "caryopsis." This is a special type of fruit where the seed coat is joined to the fruit wall.

How Are Wheat Berries Used?

Wheat berries are very versatile in the kitchen. They can be cooked and eaten on their own, much like rice or other grains.

• In Salads: Their chewy texture makes them a great addition to salads, adding substance and a nutty flavor.
• In Baked Goods: You can add cooked wheat berries to bread or muffins for extra texture and nutrients.
• As a Side Dish: Many people enjoy cooked wheat berries as a healthy side dish instead of rice or pasta.

Wheat Berries Around the World

Wheat berries are a traditional food in many cultures:

• In Eastern Europe, wheat berries are the main ingredient in a special Christmas porridge called kutya. It's a sweet dish often made with honey, poppy seeds, and nuts.
• In France, cooked durum wheat berries are a popular side dish. They are often called ebly, which comes from the name of the first brand that sold prepared wheat berries.

Images for kids

• 

  Puffed wheat berries

• 

  Wheat berries cooking - soaked then sauteed with spring onion

• 

  A salad prepared with wheat berries