Buckwheat
Despite the word “wheat” in its name, buckwheat is actually gluten-free (it’s a seed related to rhubarb), making it a great go-to ingredient for those who are gluten-allergic or averse. It’s high in fiber, as well as essential nutrients like manganese, magnesium, copper, and zinc, and contains 8 essential amino acids needed to keep the body healthy, functioning, and strong — even lysine, which is not produced by the body. Try using buckwheat flour to make pancakes with an earthy, slightly nutty flavor. Or buy buckwheat groats and use them as a side dish, like rice, or a hot breakfast cereal — try toasting them lightly first to intensify the flavor, then boiling them in water or broth. One of the easiest ways to get buckwheat into your diet is by enjoying soba noodles — they cook up quickly, much like any other type of pasta, and taste delicious hot or chilled.
Recipe: Buckwheat Soba Noodles with Sautéed Mushrooms, Shallots and Mint
