Types of flour and their uses – practical tips

Flour is one of the basic ingredients in the kitchen, used to bake bread, cakes, pasta and many other dishes. Choosing the right type of flour can significantly affect the taste, texture and nutritional value of the dishes you prepare. In this article, we will look at different types of flour and there uses, and share practical tips on how to use them.

What are the different types of flour? Basics you need to know

Wheat flour is the most popular choice in Polish homes. Depending on the degree of milling and protein content, it can be used for various baked goods – from light cakes to crispy breads. However, more and more people are reaching for spelt flour, which is a healthier alternative to traditional wheat flour. It has a delicate, slightly nutty flavor and contains more fiber and B vitamins. It is perfect for baked goods such as pancakes, breads and pastas.

Thanks to its structure, it absorbs water better than wheat flour, which affects the better consistency of the dough. Spelt flour is also more easily digestible and can be a good choice for people with gluten sensitivity.

People on a gluten-free diet can reach for alternative flours that allow you to prepare tasty and healthy dishes.

How many types of flour are there?

Buckwheat flour

Is an excellent choice for people looking for a healthy alternative to classic wheat flour. Its nutty flavor goes great with homemade baked goods such as breads, pancakes and cakes. It is rich in fiber and minerals that support the proper functioning of the body, including iron and magnesium. Thanks to its compact structure, it makes baked goods more filling, and its characteristic flavor gives dishes a unique character. Buckwheat flour is perfect for people who like to experiment in the kitchen.

Millet flour

Is delicate and easily digestible, which makes it a great choice for people with a sensitive digestive system. Its neutral taste means it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. It is rich in B vitamins and silica, which supports the health of the skin, hair and nails. Millet flour works great as an ingredient in cakes, muffins, pancakes and as a thickener for soups and sauces.

Coconut flour

Has a slightly sweet taste and high fiber content, which makes it an ideal choice for diet baking. It is rich in healthy fats, which provide energy and affect the proper functioning of the body. It is great for cakes, pancakes and as an addition to smoothies or cold desserts. Coconut flour and its natural sweetness allows you to reduce the amount of added sugar in recipes.

Chestnut flour

Has a naturally sweet taste and delicate structure, which makes baked goods with its addition fluffy and light. It is rich in valuable carbohydrates and antioxidants that support the body's immunity. Targroch chestnut flour can be used to bake cakes, waffles, pancakes, and as an addition to creams and desserts.

Acorn flour

Is a product with a unique, slightly bitter taste that gives baked goods a unique aroma. Thanks to its high tannin content, it can support digestion and have a positive effect on the digestive system. Gluten-free acorn flour Dary Natury works perfectly as an ingredient in bread, pancakes or shortbread cookies, especially in combination with other types of whole grain or nut flours.

Jerusalem artichoke flour

Is a light and delicate alternative to traditional flours, rich in inulin, which supports intestinal health and digestive processes. Its natural sweetness makes it ideal for baking without added sugar. Gluten-free Jerusalem artichoke flour BIO Dary Natury can be used to prepare bread, pancakes, healthy bars or muffins, enriching dishes with additional nutritional value.

How to choose the right flour?

What types of flour are there and how to choose the right one? The selection of the right flour depends on the type of dish you want to prepare. Wheat bread flour or spelt flour is best for bread. Gluten-free baking requires a mixture of different flours, such as buckwheat, millet or coconut, to obtain the right structure. The best types flour for baking is flours with a naturally sweet taste, such as coconut or chestnut, are ideal for desserts.

Types of flour and their use – summary

·        Wheat and spelt flour are classics in the kitchen.

·        Gluten-free flours (buckwheat, millet, coconut, chestnut) are a good alternative for people with gluten intolerance.

·        Acorn and Jerusalem artichoke flour are lesser known but valuable products.

·        The choice of flour depends on the application – bread, desserts or thickening dishes.