Introduction
This recipe offers a wholesome and flavorful combination of hearty wheat berries with charred onions and kale, presenting an enticing blend of textures and tastes that cater to both health-conscious individuals and those seeking delicious plant-based meals.
Tips for this recipe
To ensure the wheat berries are perfectly cooked, it’s essential to measure them accurately before boiling. For charring onions without overcooking the kale, manage heat levels carefully and keep an eye on the vegetables as they roast.
Why you will love this recipe
The depth of flavor achieved through the charred onions paired with the nutty essence of wheat berries and fresh kale creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Its adaptability allows for personalization to suit various dietary preferences, making it an all-time favorite.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups wheat berries
2 medium onions, halved
Five sprigs thyme
One tablespoon kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
8 tablespoons olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper
1 bunch kale, stemmed and leaves torn into 2-inch pieces
One tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Adviced equipment
– Skillet/Frying Pan: For sautéing vegetables like onions.
– Cutting Board: To safely cut ingredients such as kale and onions.
– Knife (Chef’s or Paring): Needed for chopping vegetables according to size requirements.
– Colander/Strainer: For draining wheat berries after boiling.
– Chef’s Knife (Large): Ideal for preparing larger quantities of ingredients.
– Oven-safe dishware: If the recipe were to include an oven step, this would be necessary.
– Measuring Cups/Spoons and Mixing Bowls: For accurate measurement and mixing of ingredients.
– Blender (optional): To create a smoother version by pureeing some components.
– Food Processor: Useful for efficient preparation, especially with larger quantities.
– Large Pot: Used if boiling wheat berries is part of the recipe process.
History of the Recipe
This recipe draws from ancient culinary traditions that celebrate grains and vegetables as staples in a balanced diet. Wheat has been cultivated for thousands of years, with wheat berries being a nutritious component due to their high fiber content and protein. The use of onions and kale can be tracited back to ancient civilizations that recognized these ingredients’ health benefits and versatile flavors.
Fun facts about this recipe
1. Wheat berries are often overlooked in modern cuisine but offer a nutritional advantage with their high protein content, fiber, vitamins B-6, E, and K, folate, and minerals like iron and magnesium.
2. Onions have been valued since ancient times for their flavor-enhancing properties in various culinary traditions across the world.
3. Kale is a superfood that has gained popularity due to its nutrient density, particularly high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals such as calcium and iron.
4. The combination of wheat berries, onions, and kale in this recipe not only offers a harmonious flavor profile but also embodies the ethos of cooking that promotes well-being through whole foods.