A whole-wheat kernel is actually a seed that consists of the bran, or fibrous outer husk, the endosperm, or core that is made up of starch and protein, and the germ. When a wheat kernel is planted, the germ is the part that grows into a new plant. Along with the bran, the germ of a wheat kernel is removed during milling to make all-purpose white flour. Kretschmer is a brand, owned by the Quaker company that packages milled wheat germ to sell separately for use as a cereal or an ingredient in baked goods and other foods.
Description
When wheat germ is separated from the wheat kernel during processing, it is crushed into fine flakes. Kretschmer wheat germ flakes are toasted, so they have a crisper texture than raw wheat germ flakes. Toasting also brings out wheat germ's nutty-sweet flavor. Kretschmer toasted wheat germ is enriched with vitamin E and folic acid, and is also a good source of the minerals magnesium, phosphorus and zinc, the B-vitamin thiamin and dietary fiber.
Breakfast Food
As a cold cereal, you can eat Kretschmer wheat germ on its own or with milk. Sprinkle wheat germ over other cereals, fruit, yogurt and applesauce. You can also stir wheat germ into hot cereals such as oatmeal or farina. Add a spoonful or two of wheat germ to batters used to make pancakes, waffles, crepes or muffins. Sprinkle wheat germ over ricotta cheese spread on a cinnamon-raisin bagel or toast.
Baking Ingredient
Add wheat germ to homemade baked goods such as bread, pizza dough, cookies, pie crust, biscuits, scones, cookies. granola bars and cakes. You can add just a spoonful or two without changing the recipe, or you can substitute 1/4 to 1/2 cup wheat germ for an equal amount of all-purpose or whole-wheat flour called for in most baking recipes.
Other Uses
Another way to use Kretschmer wheat germ is to add a spoonful or two of flakes to seasoned breading or batter mixtures used to coat poultry and fish fillets before baking or frying. Use wheat germ to add fiber and nutrients to ground meat mixtures such as meatloaf and meatballs. Sprinkle on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. If you don't mind flecks of wheat germ in a drink, add a spoonful or two to the blender when you make fruit smoothies or yogurt shakes.
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