We love diving into ancient grains like spelt, which bring a nutritious punch to everyday meals. Originating from the fertile fields of the Middle East, spelt offers a nutty flavor and high fiber content that makes our spelt noodles recipe a healthy swap for regular pasta. It’s perfect for those seeking wholesome, satisfying dishes without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
In our spelt noodles recipe, we focus on simple, nutrient-rich ingredients that highlight the nutty flavor and health benefits of spelt. Below, we’ve listed them in the order we use them, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for easy preparation.
- Spelt flour: 2 cups (whole grain, sifted to remove lumps, as this forms the base of our dough and provides that hearty texture).
- Water: ¾ cup (lukewarm, to activate the gluten and ensure smooth dough formation).
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (fine sea salt, added for flavor enhancement during mixing).
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (extra-virgin, used to keep the dough pliable and add a subtle richness).
- Eggs: 2 large (beaten, optional for a richer noodle if you prefer a more traditional pasta feel, though we keep it simple for spelt’s natural binding).
For optimal results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to maintain the integrity of the spelt‘s nutty profile. If you’re scaling the recipe, adjust measurements proportionally based on servings.
Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our spelt noodles, having the right tools ensures a smooth process and helps us achieve the perfect texture and shape. We’ll focus on essential items that make dough mixing, rolling, and cutting straightforward and efficient.
Essential Tools List
To make our spelt noodles recipe a success, gather these key pieces of equipment. We’ve organized them by their primary function for ease of reference:
- Mixing Bowl: A large, sturdy bowl (at least 2 quarts) is crucial for combining spelt flour, water, and other ingredients. We recommend a glass or stainless steel option to avoid any reactions with acidic elements.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for our recipe’s success. Use a set of dry measuring cups for flour and liquid measuring cups for water and oil to ensure precision in our dough preparation.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: This tool helps us mix the dough evenly without overworking it. Opt for a heat-resistant version if you’ll be transferring ingredients from a warm environment.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the desired thickness—aim for about 1/8 inch for authentic spelt noodles. A non-stick or marble rolling pin provides better control and prevents sticking.
- Pasta Machine or Sharp Knife: For cutting noodles, a manual pasta machine with adjustable settings allows us to create uniform strands quickly. If using a knife, ensure it’s a sharp chef’s knife on a stable cutting board for clean, even cuts.
- Cutting Board: A large wooden or plastic board gives us a dedicated surface for rolling and cutting, keeping our workspace organized and reducing mess.
By using these tools, we can elevate our spelt noodles from a simple dish to a professional-quality meal, highlighting the nutty flavor and high fiber content of this ancient grain.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting delicious, nutty-flavored spelt noodles from scratch, building on our earlier discussion of ingredients and tools to ensure a seamless process. Let’s transform simple spelt flour into a wholesome, fiber-rich pasta alternative.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we gather and prepare the key ingredients to set the stage for perfect dough. Measure out 2 cups of spelt flour (ensuring it’s whole grain for maximum nutrition), 1/2 teaspoon of salt for enhanced flavor, 1/2 cup of water (room temperature to activate the gluten), 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a silky texture, and optional 1 egg for added richness if desired. Sift the flour into a clean mixing bowl to remove lumps, and whisk the egg separately if using, allowing the ingredients to reach optimal consistency for easy incorporation.
Make the Dough
We combine the prepped ingredients to form a cohesive dough that highlights spelt’s natural nutty flavor. In a large mixing bowl, add the sifted spelt flour and salt, then create a well in the center. Pour in the water, olive oil, and beaten egg (if using), and use a wooden spoon to stir vigorously until a shaggy mixture forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes with firm pressure until the dough is smooth and elastic, ensuring it holds together without cracking for the best noodle texture.
Let the Dough Rest
To develop the dough’s structure and amplify its hearty, earthy taste, we let it rest for optimal gluten formation. Wrap the kneaded dough tightly in plastic wrap or a damp cloth, then place it in a cool spot away from direct heat for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the spelt flour to hydrate fully, making the dough easier to roll and resulting in tender, chewy noodles that retain their nutty essence.
Roll and Cut the Noodles
With the dough rested, we roll and cut it into uniform strands, transforming it into beautiful, homemade spelt noodles. Divide the dough into two equal portions for manageable handling. Using a floured rolling pin on a clean surface, roll each portion to about 1/8-inch thickness, aiming for an even sheet. For precision, feed through a pasta machine on the widest setting and gradually narrow it. Cut the sheets into thin strips—either by hand with a sharp knife for rustic strands or using the pasta machine’s cutter—yielding approximately 8-10 ounces of noodles per batch, perfect for a family-sized meal.
Cook the Noodles
Finally, we cook the fresh noodles to achieve a delightful al dente bite, bringing out the full, wholesome profile of spelt. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the cut noodles and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook for 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness, until they float to the top and have a firm yet tender texture. Drain immediately and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to preserve their nutty flavor and prevent clumping, resulting in about 4 servings of nutritious pasta ready for your dish.
Serve the Dish
To elevate your spelt noodles into a satisfying meal, we suggest pairing them with complementary flavors that accentuate their health benefits. Top the cooked noodles with a simple sauce like garlic-infused olive oil, fresh herbs, or a light tomato-based option, and add proteins such as grilled vegetables or lean chicken for balance. Serve immediately in warmed bowls to maintain the warm, comforting aroma, yielding roughly 4 portions that showcase spelt’s high-fiber goodness for a nutritious, everyday dinner.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how spelt noodles bring a nutritious twist to your meals. It’s a simple way to embrace ancient grains while enjoying that nutty flavor and fiber boost.
Give this recipe a go and you’ll discover it’s not just healthy—it’s deliciously satisfying. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen for wholesome, flavorful dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is spelt and where does it come from?
Spelt is an ancient grain originating from the Middle East, known for its nutty flavor and high fiber content. It’s a relative of wheat but offers more nutrients, making it a popular choice for healthy eating. Unlike modern grains, spelt has been cultivated for thousands of years and retains a rustic taste.
What are the health benefits of spelt?
Spelt is rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium, which support digestion and energy levels. Its whole grain form helps regulate blood sugar and promotes heart health. Incorporating spelt into meals can provide a nutritious alternative to refined grains, appealing to those seeking flavorful, wholesome options.
How can I incorporate spelt into everyday meals?
Spelt can be used in place of regular flour for baking or as a base for dishes like salads and soups. For a simple start, try making spelt noodles as a healthy pasta substitute. Its nutty flavor pairs well with vegetables, olive oil, or proteins, adding nutrition and taste to breakfast, lunch, or dinner routines.
What ingredients are needed for spelt noodles?
To make spelt noodles, you’ll need whole grain spelt flour, water, salt, olive oil, and an optional egg for richness. Use precise measurements like 2 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup water, 1 tablespoon oil, and 1 egg. These simple, nutrient-rich ingredients create a smooth dough that highlights spelt’s natural taste.
What tools are required to make spelt noodles?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a rolling pin to flatten the dough, a pasta machine or sharp knife for cutting, and a cutting board. These items help achieve the perfect texture and shape, turning your spelt noodles into a professional-quality meal.
How do I prepare spelt noodles from scratch?
Start by mixing spelt flour, salt, water, oil, and egg to form a dough, then knead until smooth. Let it rest for 30 minutes to develop gluten. Roll out the dough thinly, cut into strands, and dust with flour to prevent sticking. This process ensures uniform noodles with a delightful nutty flavor.
How should I cook and serve spelt noodles?
Boil the noodles in salted water for 5-7 minutes until al dente, then drain and toss with garlic-infused olive oil or grilled vegetables. Serve as a side or main dish for a nutritious meal. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture, and pair with complementary flavors to enhance spelt’s health benefits and taste.