What is buckwheat?

The New York Times just called buckwheat one of the 2024 food trends as buckwheat keeps capturing the attention of food enthusiasts and chefs alike. We are here to explain what buckwheat is and why you should care.

[ˈbʌk.wiːt] (fr) sarrasin, (nl) boekweit, (d) buchweizen, (es) alforfón, (pt) trigo sarraceno

Buckwheat is a pseudocereal that is often used as a grain in cooking, despite not being a true cereal or a type of wheat. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family and the Fagopyrum genus. Buckwheat is widely cultivated for its seeds, which are commonly referred to as groats.

Renowned for its gluten-free nature, the versatile pseudocereal has long been a staple in various global cuisines, from the soba noodles of Japanese gastronomy to the hearty kasha porridge of Eastern European traditions. As consumers increasingly seek wholesome and sustainable options, buckwheat is recognised as a trendsetter that can redefine contemporary food culture, and here is why.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients: Buckwheat is a good source of nutrients such as iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

• Amino Acid Composition: Buckwheat is considered a high-quality protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to plant-based diets. Its protein content is relatively high compared to other grains.

• Dietary Fibre: Buckwheat is a good source of dietary fibre.

• Gluten-Free: Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. It can be used as a substitute for gluten-containing grains in various recipes.
  

Health Benefits:

• Heart Health: Studies suggest that the compounds found in buckwheat promote lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.

• Weight Management: The high fibre and protein content in buckwheat can contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management and reducing overeating.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Buckwheat is a good source of antioxidants, including rutin, quercetin, and catechins, which help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body.

• Gluten-Free Option: Buckwheat is a suitable alternative for those following a gluten-free diet.
  

Environmental Benefits:

• Soil Health: Buckwheat aids in soil health by improving its structure, increasing organic matter content, and promoting nutrient availability, making it a valuable cover crop that contributes to sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices.

• Bee ally: Buckwheat plays a crucial role in supporting bee populations by providing a rich source of nectar and pollen, attracting and nourishing these essential pollinators that contribute to biodiversity and agricultural ecosystems.
  

All this goodness is amplified by an amazingly addictive nutty flavour that buckwheat’s roasted groats have. Sounds indulging? Shop buckwheat on our site and try it yourself. We offer buckwheat groats in 4 delicious flavours, and to enjoy simply buckwheat your own way choose our original option in beige with plain buckwheat groats and nothing more. And yes, we prewashed the groats so that you wouldn’t have to.

So, gluten-free, vegan and
sustainable, is it really flawless?

Yes and no, as with every food, some people can still develop allergies or intolerances towards buckwheat. Consumption of buckwheat is not associated with adverse health effects, however, high fibre and protein content make it capable of causing allergic reactions in people. As there is limited research on that, it’s important to remember that all foods must be consumed in moderation and its best to consult your personal healthcare professional should you suspect a chance of allergic reaction. But we can say that having buckwheat on the table for over 25 years we have only encountered happy guts and nom-nom-nom expressions of delight.

Why we care?

Buckwheat is a versatile and nutritious food that has been consumed in various cultures for centuries. Its unique taste, nutritional profile, and gluten-free nature contribute to its popularity in a variety of cuisines worldwide.

At Grecha, we are embarking on a 'Buckwheat Revolution' in the realm of daily foods. Our mission is to transform the way people perceive and consume their daily meals by showcasing the versatility and nutritional richness of buckwheat. We envision a world where buckwheat becomes a central and beloved element in everyone's diet. Through our innovative food products, ranging from hearty staples to delightful snacks, we aim to seamlessly integrate the goodness of buckwheat into the fabric of daily life.

Join us in this culinary revolution as we redefine daily foods with the wholesome goodness of buckwheat, making health-conscious and sustainable choices an everyday delight.

Bit more about the Buckwheat Plant

Unlike wheat, rice, or oats, although cooked in the same way, buckwheat is not a grass. It is a fruity plant related to sorrel and rhubarb. The plant has heart-shaped leaves and produces small, white flowers. It is often grown as a cover crop or for its grain. Beekeepers also love to grow buckwheat as it requires little maintenance, flowers quickly and provides a lot of nectar for the pollinators thus attracting many. The nutritional content of buckwheat nectar makes it beneficial for honey production.

The seeds of the buckwheat plant are the edible part and are known as groats. Buckwheat groats are small, triangular seeds that have a unique shape and a nutty flavour. Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Many people who are allergic to gluten or those opting-in for a grain-free diet happily enjoy buckwheat in their meals without experiencing bloating or indigestion.