One of the main ingredients in making homemade bread is wheat. My Nana usually uses different types of wheat for making homemade bread and delicious pastries for the family. Every time she kneads the dough, she adds a hint of love and cares to it, making sure that all the delectable treats she creates will be savored by her loved ones.

If you also want to bake the perfect bread for your family, choosing the best wheat for making homemade bread is the key. But before I share some of my Nana’s techniques when selecting the right wheat for your bread-making, let’s learn more about wheat.

Things you Should Know When Using Wheat

Wheat is a highly significant grain crop, playing an integral role in the development of many influential civilizations throughout history. From Mesopotamia to India, China to Egypt, Greece, and Rome, it has been a vital part of human progress.

Wheat is Versatile

Wheat is one of the most versatile grains available, and it is particularly perfect for bread making because of its high gluten content. The properties of wheat make it an ideal choice for bakers looking for a light, fluffy texture in their loaves. 

Wheat is Healthy

Furthermore, because wheat grain contains so many essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals like iron and zinc, it can be seen as a healthy alternative to other grains when baking. However, some people may experience health problems related to wheat consumption due to certain conditions. 

Wheat is Accessible

Although most of the time, wheat flour is not the preferred option for vegans and those who are seeking nutritious bread, it is still widely used to make bread. This type of flour is accessible and contains several essential nutrients that can be beneficial for individuals on a plant-based diet. However, you should also note that whole grain or alternative flours are often more suitable choices for people looking to increase their dietary intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Best Wheat for Making Bread at Home

According to my Nana, the first thing you should know to choose the best wheat for making bread is to know the types of wheat. There are several varieties that you can choose from.

In the United States, there are six primary types of wheat that are widely cultivated and harvested. These include winter wheat, durum wheat, spring wheat, spelt wheat, emmer wheat, and einkorn wheat. Each types of wheat is distinct in terms of its grain size and gluten content, and each variety serves different purposes when it comes to baking or making pasta.

Winter Wheat

Winter wheat is a cereal grain that is most often cultivated in the winter months and primarily used for bread-making. It has many advantages, such as its ability to grow in colder climates and its short growing season, which makes it easier to manage than other grains. In addition to being a staple for baking bread, Nana also uses this wheat for making malt syrup or flour for brewing beer and whisky. Additionally, due to its high protein content and gluten levels, you can also use winter to make delicious baked goods like cakes and pastries.

Durum Wheat

For those who are looking to make macaroni or spaghetti, durum is a type of hard-textured grain perfect for you. Nana, in particular, finds this grain ideal for making these types of dishes and has been using it for years. Durum wheat has become increasingly popular due to its versatility and its ability to hold up against high cooking temperatures. 

Spring Wheat

Another popular variety of wheat is Spring wheat, featuring high protein content ideal for making yeast bread and pizza crusts. It has a higher protein concentration than other varieties, making it the perfect choice for those who need a substantial amount of protein in their baking recipes. You can also use it for making bread, cookies, and even cakes because of its versatility. 

Spelt Wheat

Spelt Wheat is a type of ancient grain that has a distinctive, earthy flavor profile. Nana uses it in a variety of recipes and adds interesting textures to her muffins, cakes, and other baked goods. This hearty grain also provides several health benefits, including protein, dietary fiber, and B vitamins. 

Emmer Wheat

I’m not usually fond of using wheat because of its gluten content, but there’s a healthier wheat called emmer or also known as farro. It is also an ancient grain that has a low gluten level compared to other grains. This makes it perfect for baking pastries and other desserts since it does not cause the same issues with gluten sensitivity that wheat flour can. Its low gluten content gives baked goods a unique texture and flavor, making them nuttier and slightly sweet than regular wheat products. 

Einkorn Wheat

If you’re preparing pancakes and tortillas, the most popular wheat to choose is Einkorn wheat. This ancient grain has been around for centuries and is known for its high nutritional value. It provides a rich source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that are beneficial for your health. Additionally, it offers a nutty flavor that enhances the taste of both pancakes and tortillas. The texture of Einkorn wheat makes it ideal for baking as well, ensuring your recipes come out perfect every time.

How to Choose the Best Wheat for Bread Making

When selecting the ideal wheat for making homemade bread, it is important to consider more than just the different varieties of wheat. 

When making a decision about the type of bread you are going to bake, it is important to consider not just the ingredients and the process but also other key factors such as flavor, texture, and baking time. You should also consider flavor and texture you desire in your final product when selecting a recipe. Additionally, it is essential to factor in how long it will take to prepare and bake the bread so that you are able to plan accordingly. 

Additionally, if you are looking to get the most out of your wheat-based recipes, Nana recommends considering researching what types of wheat work best with different kinds of bread and pastries. You may even wish to experiment with a few different varieties of wheat until you find one that meets all the requirements for your specific recipe needs. In this way, you can ensure that your cooking will be as flavorful and enjoyable as possible!