Grünkern

Grünkern is spelt harvested while still immature, then dried and traditionally roasted over wood or another heat source. The kernels are olive-brown to brown and have a firm, chewy texture when cooked, with a distinctive smoky, nutty, and savoury flavour. It is a processed grain ingredient, not simply another name for ripe spelt or ordinary wheat.

Grünkern is commonly sold as whole kernels, cracked grain, or meal. Whole kernels are soaked or cooked until tender and used in grain dishes and soups; cracked or milled forms cook differently and are used in fillings or baked preparations. Roasting and milling affect its flavour and texture, so the specific form should be noted when comparing products.