Grocery
Whole Wheat Flour
What it is
This is finely ground flour made from the entire wheat kernel. It includes the bran, germ, and endosperm. The presence of the bran and germ gives it a slightly coarser texture and a nuttier flavor compared to refined white flour. It is a common pantry staple for baking and cooking.
How people cook with it
Whole wheat flour is a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of baked goods and savory dishes. Its distinct flavor and texture can add depth to many recipes.
- Baking bread
- Making pancakes
- Thickening sauces
- Creating pasta
When baking with whole wheat flour, it often absorbs more liquid than all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe. For a lighter texture in baked goods, you can also substitute half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour. It can be used to make hearty loaves of bread, wholesome muffins, or even as a base for homemade pasta. Its robust flavor also works well in savory applications like thickening gravies or creating a rustic crust for pies.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour retains the bran and germ, which contribute to its darker color, denser texture, and more pronounced nutty taste. Refined flours have these components removed, resulting in a lighter color and milder flavor.
Who it is for
Home bakers and cooks looking for a flour with a more robust flavor and texture often choose whole wheat flour.
How to keep the rest
To maintain freshness, store whole wheat flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Because of the natural oils in the germ, it can go rancid more quickly than refined flour. For longer storage, it can be kept in the refrigerator or freezer.