What is farina?

Farina is a type of milled wheat, specifically the endosperm, that's often used to make hot cereals, porridge, and other foods. Here's some information about it:

  • Definition: Farina is made from the endosperm of wheat grains, which is the starchy part of the kernel. The bran and germ are removed during processing.
  • Texture: It has a fine, granular texture, coarser than flour but finer than semolina.
  • Uses: It's primarily used to cook a warm breakfast cereal, commonly known as "Cream of Wheat" (a popular brand name) in the United States. It can also be used in baking, particularly in some breads and cakes.
  • Nutritional Value: Farina is primarily a source of carbohydrates. It is often enriched with vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins. However, it is relatively low in fiber compared to whole wheat products, unless specified as whole wheat farina.
  • Types: There are different types of farina, including:
    • Enriched farina: Fortified with vitamins and minerals.
    • Whole wheat farina: Made from the whole wheat kernel, including the bran and germ.
  • Preparation: Typically cooked with water or milk and often served with sweeteners like sugar, honey, or fruit.

Here are some important subjects as links: