Fresh milled flour is becoming increasingly popular among home bakers and professional chefs alike. Unlike all-purpose flour, which is processed and refined, fresh milled flour is made from whole grains that are ground into flour just before use. Here are some of the benefits of using fresh milled flour over all-purpose flour:
Increased Nutritional Value
Fresh milled flour retains more of the nutritional value of the grains it is made from, as the bran and germ of the grains are not removed during processing. This means that fresh milled flour is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. It contains 40 of the 44 nutrients that the human body needs. The things missing are vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B12, & the mineral iodine. Additionally, the natural oils in the grains are preserved in the fresh milled flour, which can add flavor and moisture to baked goods. Do a quick search in your favorite search engine to find article after article about the benefits of whole grains. The top 3 issues listed? 1. Heart Disease 2. Type 2 Diabetes 3. Weight Loss. That isn’t information from an off-grid health gurus, that is just from main stream health studies. I could add many other health benefits based on the testimonies of friends & family who have started baking with fresh milled flour. The more we research, the more benefits we find.
The fact that fresh milled flour is packed with nutrients is really the best reason to make the switch but in case you need more convincing…
Improved Flavor
Fresh milled flour has a richer, more complex flavor than all-purpose flour. This is because the natural oils and flavors in the grains are retained in the flour, rather than being stripped away during processing. Essentially white flour is dead flour. No nutrients, no flavor unless it is synthetically added. The flavor of fresh milled flour can vary depending on the type of grain used, with whole wheat flour having a nutty flavor and spelt flour having a sweet and nutty flavor.
Better Texture
Because fresh milled flour is less refined than all-purpose flour, it has a coarser texture that can add depth and character to baked goods. Fresh milled flour can also produce baked goods that are more tender and have a softer crumb, due to the higher moisture content in the flour.
Versatility
Fresh milled flour can be used in a variety of recipes, including bread, pastries, and cakes. It can also be used to make pasta, pancakes, and other dishes that traditionally use all-purpose flour. Once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless. You can even use fresh milled flour to make pizza dough and sourdough starter. Check out my recipe for 100% fresh milled sourdough.
Locally Sourced
Using fresh milled flour can also be a way to support local farmers and millers. Many small-scale mills are popping up around the country, which offer fresh milled flour made from locally sourced grains. This can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting flour across long distances, as well as support local businesses. A few of my favorite local providers are Copper Barn Farm & Barton Springs Mill (use code “Thara10” for a discount)
Fresh milled flour offers a variety of benefits over all-purpose flour. It is more nutritious, flavorful, and versatile, and can even support local businesses. Whether you are a professional baker or a home cook, using fresh milled flour can help elevate your baked goods and add a unique touch to your recipes.
