Kitchen Dictionary: teff

Teff or Tef is a species of love grass. This grain is found in Northeast Africa and is gluten-free, high in fiber, iron, calcium and protein. Teff can be ivory, deep red, deep brown, or deep purple in color, depending on the variety. Teff is flour similar to quinoa, and originated it Ethiopia in 4000 BC. It is very versatile and can be used in place of flour to thicken soups, stews, gravies, puddings it is added to stir fries and casseroles. Teff is grown in the US in Idaho, and in smaller amounts in South Dakota. In Ethiopia it is known mainly as a cereal crop that is ground into flour, fermented for three days then made into enjera which is like flat sourdough bread. Teff is eaten on porridge and used in certain home brewed alcohol drinks.

Ingredient

Season: available year-round

How to select: It is available mainly in health food stores.