What is Teff?

Teff is a gluten free grain indegenous to Ethiopia and Eritrea. The scientific name is called (NERD ALERT!) Eragrostis tef and is a species of lovegrass (I just love that name).

One serving of dry teff (a quarter-cup) offers 7 grams of protein, 4 grams of dietary fiber, 25 percent of your daily recommended magnesium, 20 percent of your daily iron and 10 percent of your daily calcium, Vitamin B6 and zinc.

Teff has been known to improve bone health and support growth and development (a great addition to your child's diet), boost our immune systems, improve heart health and circulation and even helps with weight loss. It's great for digestion as well.

It's incredibly versatile and can be used in its seed form to make cereals and porridge or in a flour form for baking. I personally love to bake with it and I make everything from breads, and pancakes to cookies and cakes.

Traditionally teff was only grown in Ethiopia and Eritrea, but now you can find it here in the United States in most natural grocers including whole foods. I buy mine in bulk from my favorite local Ethiopian grocer - Tenadam Market.

There are three main types of teff: white, mixed (red, brown, white) and red/brown. I use both depending on what I'm making. The white teff flour is great if you're looking for more light and airy textures, so I'll use it in my most of my bread recipes, pancakes and cakes.

Brown teff flour is much richer and denser. I love adding this to my whole grain bread recipes, protein balls or cookies. I also love using it to make a traditional Ethiopian breakfast called chechebsa. I love using a combination of both white and brown flours as a great nutritional addition to my granola.

I try to incorporate teff into my diet as much as possible both for the rich flavors it adds to my foods and the nutrition. Plant-based folks will also enjoy the high protein and iron contents found in the flour. Teff is an incredible flour that can be mixed with other flours to achieve any of your favorite baked goods. Follow my blog and I'll show you how easy it is to use. Next time you're in the grocery store, make sure to stop by the baking isle and pick up a bag.