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A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

Ancient grains may have been left on the sidelines for a few generations, but they’re definitely making a comeback. Brace yourself because what you will learn about ancient grains could possibly and positively change your lifestyle!

Ancient Grains: What You Know Could Save You!

With the recent popularity of chia seeds, quinoa, and amaranth, interest in these ancient grains have since increased. And with my propensity to be drawn to anything ‘healthy’, I’ve included quinoa and chia seeds in my diet. Of course, before I went nuts over these foods, I did my own searching and found more positive revelations about these healthy grains. Not only are they an excellent food source, they’re also perfect for my homesteading lifestyle. Read on to know what ancient grains are, what’s in it, and why they’re still enjoying popularity today.

What Are Ancient Grains?

What Are Ancient Grains? | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

Ancient grains or heritage grains are a grouping of seed- or fruit-based cereals which trace its roots as far as the beginning of civilization. These heritage grains have been cultivated for thousands of years but didn’t achieve the prominence modern grains like corn, rice, and wheat got. However, unlike modern grains, these grains changed so little over the millennia. Perhaps, farmers preference for faster-growing crops like corn and wheat spared these grains from crop manipulation and selective breeding.

Ancient grains were once important crops in different cultures, though they’ve lost that distinction over the years. For example, quinoa was once revered by the Incas, farro grains was mentioned in the Bible, and barley and oats were once essential crops during 19th century-Europe. With their recent rediscovery in the West, their popularity is expected to rise and continue. So much so that they could be our food of tomorrow.

What’s The Fuss With Ancient Grains?

What's The Fuss With Ancient Grains? | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

What's The Fuss With Ancient Grains? | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

With the belief that the Paleo diet is healthier, plus the old-world romanticism of ‘slow food’, heritage grains are making a revival. While cultivation of these crops has been limited, they are increasingly taking over shelves in stores and the market. You can now easily find pasta, artisan bread, and cereal made from heritage grains.

Luckily, heritage grains have been continually cultivated organically in different communities around the globe. Because these grains remained natural, they are the stuff of healthy-eater dreams. They make a great choice and a healthy addition to grains and carbs since they are less refined and apparently contain a higher amount of essential nutrients.

Organic, higher fiber and nutritional content, gluten-free, and protein-rich are just some of the characteristics ancient grains boast. Perhaps, being unchanged from selective cropping and biotechnological research they’ve managed to be just as they were for the past centuries–just as healthy. In short, ancient grains are non-GMO—great news for health watchers and organic growers.

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Have You Tried These Ancient Grains?

  • Millet
  • Barley
  • Teff
  • Oats
  • Freekeh
  • Bulgur
  • Sorghum
  • Farro
  • Einkorn
  • Emmer
  • Quinoa
  • Amaranth
  • Buckwheat
  • Chia
  • Couscous
  • Wild Rice
  • Khorasan Wheat (Kamut)
  • Spelt

Grains versus Pseudocereals

Technically, not all of the heritage grains are grains, but they have been classified along with grains since they are prepared in the same manner. Sorghum, oats, rye, barley, millet and wild rice are considered grains while buckwheat, chia, amaranth, and quinoa are pseudocereals.

Nutritional Benefits Of Ancient Grains

Nutritional Benefits Of Ancient Grains | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

Nutritional Benefits Of Ancient Grains | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

Generally, heritage grains are all said to be more nutritious and healthier than modern grains. They are said to contain more protein, perfect for vegans who need plant-based protein in their diet. However, the nutritional properties of grains are varied and sometimes unique to a variety. For example, oats have a hefty level of thiamin, chia doubles in fiber content compared to other grains, and Spelt has a high level of manganese.

Ancient grains, often referred to as ‘super grains’, are said to be rich in protein, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Ongoing research shows that these healthy grains are likely to decrease the cholesterol level in consumers. It has been also shown to help prevent diabetes and certain cancers, specifically colon and breast cancer.

Some grains are celebrated for being gluten-free, but not all ancient grains are gluten-free. Millet, teff, buckwheat, quinoa, and amaranth are gluten-free, but oats and the ancient kinds of wheat like Khorasan and Spelt are not.

Ancient Grains For Survival

Ancient Grains For Survival | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

Ancient Grains For Survival | A Guide To Ancient Grains For Homesteaders | Homesteading Today

As we have time and again pointed out, every homesteader is practically a survivalist. It should be clear by now that ancient grains are not only hardy, for indeed they have withstood the test of time. They grow in some of the harshest conditions and they practically thrive on neglect. Most heritage grains are also long-storing, like buckwheat, Kamut, and Spelt which survive for as long as 30 years or longer when stored properly. With that said, ancient grains are definitely your ultimate survival food item.

Now, I can safely conclude that these ancient food sources could be the food of today and tomorrow. Not only did these foods survive without intervention and manipulation, they’ve nourished our ancestors and can nourish us just as well. Get familiar with these ancient grains out in their natural environment so you know where and what to look for in any survival situation. Knowing about ancient grains can definitely save your life health-wise and survival-wise.

Follow some of the most celebrated ancient grains here in this video:

Now you know a great deal more about the ‘super grains’ ancient grains. Whether you are looking forward to a healthier lifestyle, looking for variety in your food choices, or looking for a survival food item, you got it with ancient grains!

What do you think about the ancient grains? Share your thoughts about it in the comments section below!

Up Next: Maca Powder Magic | Why Add This Superfood To Your Diet

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NYC Adds Nearly 4,000 People Who Never Tested Positive To Coronavirus Death Tolls

New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll Tuesday, bringing coronavirus-related deaths in the city to around 10,000 people.

The city decided to add 3,700 people to its death tolls, who they “presumed” to have died from the virus, according to a report from The New York Times. The additions increased the death toll in the U.S. by 17%, according to the Times report, and included people who were suffering from symptoms of the virus, such as intense coughing and a fever.

The report stated that Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio decided over the weekend to change the way the city is counting deaths.

“In the heat of battle, our primary focus has been on saving lives,” de Blasio press secretary Freddi Goldstein told the Times.“As soon as the issue was raised, the mayor immediately moved to release the data.”

The post New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll appeared first on Daily Caller

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Self Sufficiency

How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar

The thing about homesteading is you get to create your own ingredient right from scratch! Cheese, yogurt, butter and now sauerkraut, a delightfully sour and crunchy ingredient you can use on your meals — or consume by itself — while on a homestead, or while facing this health crisis!

This homemade sauerkraut is a great meal because it has a long shelf life. You can either make plain sauerkraut or mix it with herbs and spices. In this tutorial let us make Lacto-fermented sauerkraut that preserves all the good probiotics in a jar, good for your guts.

So how to make sauerkraut in a mason jar?

RELATED: How To Make Buttermilk On Your Homestead

Delicious Sauerkraut Recipe Every Homesteader Should Know

Why Make Sauerkraut?

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Not only does sauerkraut spoil a long time, but it is also a meal in itself, and it is also easy to make! You don’t need to be an expert cook, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.

So let us get started. Here are the steps in making sauerkraut in a mason jar.

Ingredients:

  • 1 head of cabbage or 2 1/2 lbs cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon of salt

Tools Needed:

  • knife
  • bowl
  • mason jar
  • smaller jar
  • rubber band

Step 1: Wash & Clean the Tools & Ingredients



Wash all the equipment and utensils you need. Wash your hands too.

You don’t want to mix your sauerkraut with bad bacteria, anything that is going to make you sick.

Next, remove the faded leaves from your cabbage. Cut off the roots and the parts that don’t seem fresh.

Step 2: Cut the Cabbage Into Quarters & Slice Into Strips



Cut your cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, slice it into strips.

Step 3: Place in a Bowl & Sprinkle With Salt



Put the stripped cabbage into a bowl. Sprinkle the cabbage with 1 tablespoon of salt.

TIP: Use canning salt or sea salt. Iodized salt will make it taste different and may not ferment the cabbage.

RELATED: Homemade Yogurt Recipe

Step 4: Massage the Cabbage



Massage the cabbage for five minutes or more to get the juice out.

TIP: You’ll know it’s ready when you see a bit of juice at the bottom of the bowl and will look similar to coleslaw.

Step 5: Press Cabbage Into the Mason Jar



Add the cabbage to the mason jar gradually. Press it in hard to allow the juice to come out. Do this every time you add about a handful of cabbage.

IMPORTANT: Food should be covered by the liquid to promote fermentation. Add any excess liquid from the bowl to the jar.

Step 6: Press a Smaller Jar Into the Mason Jar



You want to squeeze every ounce of that juice from the cabbage. To do this place the mason jar in a bowl and get a smaller jar.

Fill it with water or marble to make it heavy. Press it into the bigger mason jar. Allow any juices to rise to the surface.

Step 7: Cover the Jars With Cloth & Tie With Rubber Band



Leave the small jar on. To keep your jars clean from annoying insects and irritating debris, cover your jars with a clean cloth. Then, use a rubber band to tie the cloth and the jars together, putting them in place.

Step 8: Set Aside & Check Daily

Set it aside in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight. Check the water level daily. It should always be above the cabbage.

Step 9: Taste Your Sauerkraut & Keep at Cool Temperatures

Homemade Sauerkraut Cumin Juniper | How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar

After about five days, you can taste your sauerkraut. If the taste is to your liking, tightly cover it with the lid and store in the fridge or cellar.

NOTE: If after five days it’s still not your desired taste, leave it for a few more days. This will allow the fermentation process to continue.

You can now enjoy your sauerkraut in a mason jar. Enjoy its goodness! You can use it as a side dish or mix it with your favorite sandwich.

Things to Remember in Making Sauerkraut

  • Store away from direct sunlight and drafts.
  • Colder weather will make the process longer. Spring is the best time to make them since the warmth helps activate the fermentation.
  • Always make sure that the cabbage is below the water level during the entire fermentation process.
  • If the water level decreases during the fermentation process, you can make a brine and add it.

Let us watch this video from Kristina Seleshanko on how to make delicious Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar!

So there you have it! Making Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar is as easy as slicing the cabbage into strips. Remember that as long it remains unopened, your sauerkraut can last for months. Best of all, you can partner this sauerkraut in many recipes.

What do you think of this homemade recipe? Share your best sauerkraut recipe in the comments section below!

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9 SPRING VEGETABLES FOR YOUR GARDEN

Having plants in the house will bring peace to people. Having a little garden with vegetables is even better! You can grow these vegetables in your backyard garden easily as well!

RELATED: Microgreens Growing Guide

In this article:

  1. Tomato
  2. Eggplant
  3. Beet
  4. Spinach
  5. Pea
  6. Carrot
  7. Radish
  8. Cauliflower
  9. Asparagus

Growing veggies in your garden will give you an opportunity to understand what you eat and value it more. Early spring is when most vegetables are being planted. Keep reading to learn about 9 spring vegetables that anyone can grow in their garden!

Tomato

Tomato is the most popular garden vegetable in the States! There are different varieties to choose from. Tomatoes need to be planted in early spring because they won’t survive a frost.

Because tomatoes are consumed daily, try adding them to your garden! They’re not difficult to grow either.

Eggplant

Eggplants are known to have low-calorie, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Plus, they are delicious! So why not plant them in your garden?

Eggplants shouldn’t be planted too early because they won’t be able to survive a frost. So you could consult an expert in your area before you plant your eggplants.

Beets

Beets are known to be a superfood for its various health benefits. They’re easier to grow in the garden, usually around late March or early April.

If the weather is always cool, beets will keep getting bigger and bigger. Once the weather starts to warm up, you’ll need to harvest them, or they’ll go to waste.

Spinach

Spinach is a delicious early spring veggie, and it’s also very beneficial for health. And it’s not difficult to grow spinach in your garden!

Spinach needs cold weather to grow. Getting spinach to grow is easy, but keeping it growing will require some extra care.

Pea

Peas are usually planted in late April. Peas will die in freezing temperatures, but they also won’t survive the heat either. So make sure you plant your peas in early spring.

Peas are widely used in many different ways, and there are different types of peas. The soil you’ll be planting your peas should be suitable for them, so make sure you ask while buying seeds.

Carrot

There are different types of carrots, but regardless of their size and color, it’s a fact that carrots are both delicious and rich in vitamins.

They’re root vegetables, so with proper sun and watering, they can be picked up as baby carrots as well.

Radish

A radish is an excellent option for beginners because it doesn’t require too much care. Radish is easy to harvest.

Radish grows fast, so it’s better to keep an eye on it after a few weeks. Radish usually is grown pest-free, but there’s always the chance of unwanted guests, so watch out for worms. Radish can be eaten raw or can be added to garnish recipes.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower isn’t the easiest vegetable to grow at home, but it is very popular.

Cauliflower grows better in colder weather, so before you plant it, consider the climate of your garden. Cauliflower can be eaten raw or cooked, and it is known to be very beneficial for health.

Asparagus

Freshly picked, tender asparagus is very delicious!

Asparagus plants get more productive with each harvest, and mature asparagus harvest can last for months! Make sure you plant them at the correct time, or else they might go to waste.

All the vegetables listed above are great for your healthy diet, and it’s fun to watch them grow. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to grow your own veggies and eat healthy this spring!

So tell us which veggies will you be growing this spring? Tell us in the comments section!

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