In recent years, the pasta aisle has undergone a transformation, with ancient grains making a significant comeback. While traditional durum wheat remains the cornerstone of pasta production, varieties made from einkorn, emmer, and Kamut (Khorasan wheat) are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers and culinary enthusiasts alike. A conscious and healthy diet, including pasta, is a lifestyle that pays off.

Grain Varieties and Nutritional Aspects

Pasta is traditionally made from various wheat varieties, each offering unique nutritional profiles and culinary characteristics.

• Durum Wheat: The most common grain for pasta production, durum wheat is known for its high protein content (around 13-14%) and strong gluten structure. This results in pasta with excellent cooking properties and a firm texture.
• Emmer: An ancient wheat variety, emmer contains approximately 12.5% protein. It offers a nutty flavor and is often praised for its digestibility.
• Kamut (Khorasan): This ancient grain boasts a higher protein content (14-18%) compared to modern wheat varieties. Kamut is rich in minerals, particularly selenium, and contains more lipids than common wheat.
• Einkorn: Another ancient wheat variety, einkorn has the highest protein content among wheat types, averaging 18.2% per 100g. It also contains higher levels of antioxidants and essential fatty acids.
• Spelt: Spelt is another ancient grain that contains gluten but is often perceived as easier to digest than modern wheat.

Ancient grains are not just a trend; they’re nutritional powerhouses. Kamut, for instance, boasts a protein content of 14-18%, surpassing that of conventional wheat. This higher protein content not only enhances the pasta’s nutritional profile but also contributes to a more satisfying eating experience.

Einkorn, the oldest known cultivated wheat, takes the protein crown with an impressive 18.2% per 100g, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Additionally, these ancient grains often contain higher levels of minerals and antioxidants compared to their modern counterparts.

The Gluten Issue

When exploring the nutritional aspects of various pasta grains, one prominent question arises regarding gluten content. Gluten is a mixture of proteins found in wheat that plays a crucial role in the texture and elasticity of dough. The gluten content varies significantly among different wheat varieties, impacting their suitability for pasta production and their digestibility for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Gluten in Ancient Grains vs. Modern Wheat

• Einkorn: This ancient grain contains gluten but has a different structure compared to modern wheat. It has only 14 chromosomes, unlike the 42 found in common wheat. This structural difference may contribute to its lower allergenic potential, making it more tolerable for some individuals with gluten sensitivities. Studies indicate that einkorn has a higher protein content and a unique gluten composition that may be less likely to trigger adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Emmer: Similar to einkorn, emmer also has a distinct gluten profile. While it contains gluten, its strength and composition differ from modern wheat, which may affect its digestibility. Emmer pasta tends to have a lower glycemic index and is often considered more nutritious due to its higher mineral content.
• Spelt: Spelt is another ancient grain that contains gluten but is often perceived as easier to digest than modern wheat. It has a higher protein content than common wheat but also exhibits a different balance of gliadins and glutenins, which are the two main types of gluten proteins. This balance can influence baking qualities and the overall texture of pasta.
• Kamut (Khorasan): Kamut is known for its high protein content and unique gluten structure. While it does contain gluten, some studies suggest that the specific proteins present in Kamut may be less inflammatory compared to those in modern wheat varieties. This characteristic has led some individuals with mild sensitivities to tolerate Kamut better than standard bread or durum wheat.

Summary of Gluten Characteristics

Conclusion

While all these grains contain gluten, their structural differences may affect how they are digested and tolerated by individuals with sensitivities. Ancient grains like einkorn, emmer, spelt, and Kamut offer unique nutritional benefits while potentially providing alternatives for those who struggle with conventional wheat products. However, it’s important to note that they are not gluten-free and should be consumed cautiously by those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Technical Aspects of Cooking

Different wheat varieties affect pasta’s cooking properties:

1. Protein Content: Higher protein content generally results in firmer pasta with better cooking stability.
2. Gluten Structure: Ancient grains like emmer and einkorn have weaker gluten networks, which can lead to softer textures but may require more careful cooking to avoid mushiness.
3. Starch Composition: The ratio of amylose to amylopectin in the wheat’s starch affects cooking properties. Einkorn, for example, has smaller starch granules, which can influence gelatinization and texture.

Price Considerations

Kamut-based pasta is typically more expensive than durum wheat pasta due to several factors:

1. Rarity: Kamut is a trademarked ancient grain variety, grown in limited quantities.
2. Organic Cultivation: Kamut is often grown organically, increasing production costs.
3. Nutritional Value: The higher protein and mineral content justify a premium price.

Slow-Dried vs. Quick-Dried Pasta

Slow-Dried Pasta:

• Dried at low temperatures (below 38°C) for 24-72 hours.
• Retains more nutrients and natural flavors.
• Results in a more porous texture, allowing better sauce adhesion.
• Cooks faster and has a superior al dente texture.

Quick-Dried Pasta:

• Dried at high temperatures for less than 3 hours.
• More economical to produce but may result in lower quality.
• Can lead to a smoother texture that doesn’t hold sauce as well.

Pasta al Bronzo

“Pasta al bronzo” refers to pasta extruded through bronze dies. This process:

• Creates a rougher, more porous surface texture.
• Allows sauce to adhere better to the pasta.
• Is typically associated with higher-quality, artisanal pasta production.

Chef Recommendations

1. For traditional Italian dishes, chefs often prefer bronze-cut, slow-dried pasta made from durum wheat for its superior texture and sauce-holding capabilities.
2. When working with ancient grain pastas like those made from Kamut or einkorn, chefs recommend slightly undercooking to maintain texture, as these pastas can become soft more quickly than durum wheat pasta.
3. For health-conscious dishes, chefs might choose whole grain or ancient wheat pastas for their higher nutritional value and unique flavors.
4. Pasta made from Kamut or other ancient grains is often recommended for its nutty flavor profile, which can add depth to dishes.

In conclusion, the world of pasta offers a wide variety of options, each with its own nutritional benefits and culinary applications. Whether choosing traditional durum wheat pasta or exploring ancient grain varieties, understanding these differences can enhance both the health benefits and gastronomic enjoyment of pasta dishes.