How To Cook Freekeh
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
130 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
How To Cook Freekeh
Description
Freekeh, either cracked or whole grain, is first rinsed to remove debris and dust. It is then added to a saucepan with a measured amount of water and brought to a simmer. Cooking continues on low heat with the pot covered until the grains are tender but retain some chewiness. Cracked freekeh takes about 25 minutes, while whole grain requires around 40 minutes. After cooking, the heat is turned off and the freekeh rests covered for 10 minutes to allow the grains to steam and fluff fully. This method preserves the nutty flavor and firm texture characteristic of freekeh.
The resulting grain can be served as a side dish or combined with proteins like Mediterranean shrimp, chicken, or beef stew to create hearty meals. Using broth instead of water for cooking adds extra flavor. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to four days and freeze for several months.
Ingredients
- 1 cup freekeh see notes
- 2 1/2 cup water see notes
Instructions
- Rinse freekeh a few times to make sure it's clean and any debris is removed.
- Place it in a saucepan and top with water. Bring to a simmer over medium high heat.
- Cover with a lid, turn the heat down to medium low and cook until the grains are chewy and tender. Cracked freekeh will take about 25 minutes and whole grain will take about 40 minutes.
- Once the grain is fully cooked, turn the heat off and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
Notes
- Both cracked and whole freekeh work with this method; cracked cooks faster.
- Use water, chicken, beef broth, or vegetable stock for cooking.
- Resting the cooked freekeh covered for 10 minutes helps grains fluff properly.
- Serve freekeh alongside dishes like Mediterranean shrimp or Turkish ground beef stew.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked freekeh for up to 3 months to preserve freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 130 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 130kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Sodium | 7mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Calcium | 24mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.