Ancient Grains Thanksgiving Harvest Farro and Popcorn

Gathered around the table, stories are told, memories are created, and love is abundantly grown

Farro: A Grain of Antiquity

Farro, often referred to as "the mother of all wheat," is a versatile and nutritious grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It has a unique nutty flavor and a chewy texture, making it a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Cooking Farro

• Start by rinsing the farro under cold water.

• Use a 2:1 ratio of water to farro. For 1 cup of farro, use 2 cups of water.

• Bring the water to a boil, add the farro, and reduce heat to a simmer.

• Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the farro is tender but still has a slight bite.

• Drain any excess water and fluff the farro with a fork.

Thanksgiving Farro Salad

• Combine cooked farro with roasted vegetables like butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries.

• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, sprinkle with fresh herbs and feta cheese.

• Toss it all together for a hearty and delicious side dish.

Popcorn Tradition

While we often associate popcorn with movie nights, this ancient grain has a history that predates modern cinema. Popcorn's origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations in the Americas, where it was enjoyed as a snack and even used in ceremonial rituals.

Popping Popcorn:

- Heat a large pot with a lid over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of vegetable oil.

- Drop in a few popcorn kernels, and when they pop, you'll know the oil is hot enough.

- Add the rest of the popcorn kernels and cover with the lid.

- Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning.

- Once the popping slows down to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove it from heat.

- Season with salt or your favorite popcorn seasoning.

Thanksgiving Popcorn Trail Mix:

Mix popped popcorn with roasted nuts, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar.

This sweet and savory snack is perfect for munching on while you prepare the Thanksgiving feast.

Incorporating these ancient grains into your Thanksgiving celebration not only adds depth and flavor to your menu but also connects you to a rich culinary history that spans generations. So, whether you're serving up a farro salad or a bowl of freshly popped popcorn, savor the stories behind these grains as you give thanks with family and friends.