Home/Grains/Steel-Cut Spelt
Back to Home
Steel-Cut Spelt
Grains
Nutri-ScoreA

Steel-Cut Spelt

Triticum spelta

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Steel-Cut Spelt provides 150 kcal, 6g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Steel-cut spelt is a whole grain that is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional value and fiber content. It is known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Spelt (General)Dinkel (Germany)
Scientific NameTriticum spelta
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber10g
Total37.5g
Protein
6g(16%)
Fats
1.5g(4%)
Carbohydrates
30g(80%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.4 mg (33%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)4 mg (25%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate20 µg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0 µgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium70 mg (17%)
Phosphorus150 mg (12%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc1.5 mg (14%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese1 mg (50%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.5 µg

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, steel-cut spelt aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Contains essential nutrients such as magnesium and iron, which support metabolic functions and energy production.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid spelt as it contains gluten.

How to Prepare & Consume

To prepare steel-cut spelt, rinse it under cold water, then cook it in boiling water or broth for about 20-30 minutes until tender. It can be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose steel-cut spelt that is whole grain and free from additives. Look for a clean, unbroken texture.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Digestive
Main Applications
Promoting digestive health
Enhancing nutrient intake
Bioactive Compounds
Beta-glucans

Known to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

How to Consume
Cooked, as a grain bowl, in salads, or as porridge
Did you know?

"Spelt is one of the oldest cultivated grains, dating back over 9,000 years."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Spelt is gluten-free.
RealityReality: Spelt contains gluten and is not safe for those with celiac disease.
MythMyth: Steel-cut spelt is the same as regular spelt.
RealityReality: Steel-cut spelt is processed differently, resulting in a chewier texture and longer cooking time.
MythMyth: All whole grains are the same.
RealityReality: Different whole grains have unique nutrient profiles and health benefits.

Healthy Recipes

Spelt Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a nutritious spelt breakfast bowl topped with fresh fruits and nuts for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add steel-cut spelt. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in almond milk, honey, and cinnamon, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve warm, topped with banana slices and chopped walnuts.

Savory Spelt Salad

A refreshing salad featuring steel-cut spelt, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut spelt
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine cooked spelt and roasted vegetables.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss well, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Spelt and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto made with steel-cut spelt and earthy mushrooms, offering a hearty and satisfying dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, then stir in steel-cut spelt.
  3. 3. Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently until spelt is tender and creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.

Spelt Veggie Burgers

Delicious and nutritious veggie burgers made with steel-cut spelt, black beans, and spices, perfect for grilling.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut spelt
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole grain buns
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash black beans and mix in cooked spelt, diced onion, breadcrumbs, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form mixture into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill patties for about 5 minutes on each side, serve on whole grain buns with your favorite toppings.

Spelt Porridge with Berries

A warm and comforting spelt porridge topped with mixed berries and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook steel-cut spelt in boiling water for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat.
  3. 3. Serve topped with mixed berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Spelt and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of steel-cut spelt, spinach, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut spelt
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked spelt, chopped spinach, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff each pepper half with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Spelt Pancakes with Almond Butter

Fluffy spelt pancakes served with almond butter and fresh fruit, making for a healthy and indulgent breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 egg
  • Almond butter for serving
  • Fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix spelt flour, baking powder, honey, almond milk, and egg until smooth.
  2. 2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour batter to form pancakes.
  3. 3. Cook until bubbles form, flip, and cook until golden brown. Serve with almond butter and fresh fruit.

Spelt and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup combining steel-cut spelt and lentils with vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt
  • 1 cup lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add steel-cut spelt, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until spelt and lentils are tender.

Spelt Energy Bars

Nutritious energy bars made with steel-cut spelt, nuts, and dried fruits, perfect for a healthy snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steel-cut spelt, cooked
  • 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cooked spelt, chopped almonds, dried cranberries, honey, cinnamon, and almond butter until well combined.
  2. 2. Press mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  3. 3. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.

Spelt Veggie Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring steel-cut spelt and a variety of fresh vegetables, tossed in a savory sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked steel-cut spelt
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in cooked spelt and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is steel-cut spelt?

Steel-cut spelt is whole grain spelt that has been cut into pieces, making it quicker to cook while retaining its nutritional benefits.

How do I cook steel-cut spelt?

Cook steel-cut spelt by boiling it in water or broth for 20-30 minutes until tender.

Is steel-cut spelt gluten-free?

No, steel-cut spelt contains gluten and is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

What are the health benefits of steel-cut spelt?

It is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can aid digestion and provide sustained energy.

Can I use steel-cut spelt in baking?

Yes, you can incorporate steel-cut spelt flour into baking recipes for added nutrition.

How should I store steel-cut spelt?

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

What is the glycemic index of steel-cut spelt?

The glycemic index of steel-cut spelt is approximately 45, making it a low to moderate GI food.

Can I eat steel-cut spelt every day?

Yes, incorporating steel-cut spelt into your daily diet can provide numerous health benefits.