Baking with a Gluten-Free Ancient Grain
Teff flour is derived from teff grain, an ancient grain from Ethiopia and Eritrea in Africa. Teff flour is gluten-free and offers a remarkable combination of nutritional, culinary, and functional benefits. Studies continues to unveil new advantages to incorporating teff into a healthy diet, making teff flour increasingly valuable for both conventional and gluten-free baking.
Nutritional Benefits of Teff Flour
Teff flour is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free flour made from teff, an ancient grain from Ethiopia. Teff flour is always whole grain because teff grains are extremely small (smaller than a poppy seed), making it difficult to separate the bran, germ, and endosperm during milling. As a result, teff flour naturally retains the fiber, protein, and nutrients found in the whole grain.
Teff Nutition Facts:
1. High in Fiber for Digestive Health
Teff contains 8g of fiber per 100g, helping with digestion, regulating blood sugar, and supporting gut health.
Fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, making it beneficial for weight management.
2. Excellent Source of Iron
Teff is one of the richest grains in iron
The iron in teff is mostly in its bioavailable form, making it especially beneficial for preventing anemia.
3. Packed with Calcium for Bone Health
This is higher in calcium than most grains, making it a great option for bone strength.
4. Rich in Zinc and Magnesium
Zinc supports immune function, wound healing, and metabolism.
Magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function, energy production, and heart health.
5. High in Protein and Essential Amino Acids
Teff is a great plant-based protein source.
It has a high lysine content, an essential amino acid often low in other grains. Lysine supports muscle repair, collagen production, and immune function.
6. Naturally Gluten-Free
Teff flour is 100% gluten-free, making it a safe option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
7. Supports Blood Sugar Control
Teff has a low-to-moderate glycemic index (GI) due to its fiber and resistant starch content.
It helps slow the release of sugar into the bloodstream, reducing blood sugar spikes.
8. Rich in Antioxidants
Teff contains polyphenols and other antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Binding Properties:
Texture Development:
Clinical studies indicate potential advantages:
Blood Sugar Management
Digestive Health
Teff flour stays fresh for 6-8 months when stored in airtight containers in cool, dry places. For longer storage, keep Maskal Teff flour in the refrigerator for up to one year or freeze for two years. Always check for rancid odors before using, as the natural oils in teff flour can spoil if exposed to heat and humidity
Teff flour provides natural binding properties that eliminate the need for xanthan gum or other additives in most recipes. Unlike single-ingredient gluten-free flours that create crumbly textures, teff flour develops structure and moisture retention naturally. Maskal Teff flour’s fine texture and complete protein content create better rise and more cohesive results than rice or potato flour blends.
Teff flour contains 8 grams of fiber per 100 grams and resistant starches that slow glucose absorption, preventing blood sugar spikes common with wheat flour. The complete protein profile helps maintain steady insulin response, while the moderate glycemic index provides sustained energy release. Maskal Teff flour supports diabetic meal planning by delivering complex carbohydrates without rapid glucose elevation.
Teff flour provides iron in highly bioavailable form, meaning your body absorbs it more easily than iron from fortified wheat flours. With significantly more iron than other grain flours, teff flour helps prevent anemia naturally without synthetic supplements. Maskal Teff flour combines iron with vitamin C-rich foods for maximum absorption, making it superior to iron-fortified processed flours.
Teff flour contains more calcium than almond flour without triggering nut allergies or requiring refrigeration for freshness. While almond flour adds fats that some people cannot digest well, teff flour provides clean plant protein and complex carbohydrates. Maskal Teff flour offers sustainable nutrition for people with multiple food sensitivities who need allergen-free baking options that deliver complete nutrition.
Teff flour provides complete amino acids in whole food form, including high lysine content essential for muscle repair and collagen production. Unlike isolated protein powders, teff flour delivers sustained energy through complex carbohydrates alongside muscle-building proteins. Maskal Teff flour creates satisfying post-workout snacks that support recovery while providing fiber and minerals missing from synthetic protein supplements.
Teff flour retains polyphenols and antioxidants naturally present in the whole grain, unlike refined flours that strip away protective compounds during processing. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress throughout the body, supporting immune function and cellular health. Maskal Teff flour delivers these protective compounds in every serving, making daily consumption beneficial for long-term health maintenance.
Teff flour’s natural binding properties and fine particle size create smoother batters and more tender crumb structure than coarser gluten-free flours. The high protein content helps trap air bubbles for better rise, while fiber content adds moisture retention that prevents dry, crumbly results. Maskal Teff flour works especially well in pancakes, muffins, and quick breads where tender texture and rich flavor enhance the final product.
Teff flour requires no blending with other flours, unlike most gluten-free alternatives. While almond flour adds fat and coconut flour absorbs moisture, teff flour provides structure and mild nutty flavor without overwhelming sweetness. Maskal Teff flour contains more protein and fiber than coconut flour, creating better texture in baked goods without additional binding agents
Teff flour stays fresh for 6-8 months when stored in airtight containers in cool, dry places. For longer storage, keep Maskal Teff flour in the refrigerator for up to one year or freeze for two years. Always check for rancid odors before using, as the natural oils in teff flour can spoil if exposed to heat and humidity
The Teff Company grows Maskal Teff in the western USA, a non-GMO gluten-free grain that’s a superfood full of high quality complex carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, and fiber. Teff is an ancient grain native to Ethiopia and Eritrea. Explore our website to learn more about teff. Learn how to make traditional injera or discover 100s of teff recipes from breakfasts to desserts.
