What Is Freekeh? The Nutritious Roasted Grain from the Middle East

The selection of grains on store shelves keeps expanding, and freekeh has rightfully earned its permanent spot.

Freekeh hails from the Middle East and is made from durum wheat harvested while still green and unripe. The grains are sun-dried, roasted over fire, rubbed to remove husks, and cracked into pieces. This unique roasting process delivers a distinctive nutty flavor. Harvesting it early locks in superior nutritional value.

Nutritional Highlights

• Calories: 346 per 100 grams
• Fiber: Promotes fullness and healthy digestion—nearly twice that of white rice
• Carbohydrates: Fuel your body with sustained energy
• Vitamin B1: Essential for releasing energy from carbs, proteins, and fats
• Vitamin B2: Supports a strong immune system
• Proteins: Key building blocks for your body
• Minerals: Includes magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron for muscle health, strong bones, and heart function

Did you know? Freekeh is also called frikeh or farik.