In the evening of March 26th, the Kenyon Public Library welcomed Amber Reher to speak on the importance and benefits of milling grain at home. The presentation was well-received and well-attended. During the presentation, Reher covered the importance of whole wheat products, shared some of her favorite recipes, and even shared some baked goodies with those in attendance. Reher’s goal with this presentation was to help generate awareness of the benefits of whole grains. She wants others to know that milling grain at home, “isn’t that difficult.” She says, “there is definitely a learning curve when using fresh milled flour, but actually milling your own flour doesn't take much more time or effort and has amazing benefits.”
Reher’s interest in homemaking began early. She says, “I grew up on a dairy farm, so being around a farm that was producing food was a part of my life from the get-go.” Her grandfather built her a chicken coop, and she began to raise a few chickens. As she grew up, she continued to be interested in learning more about how her food was grown and where it came from. Reher now lives on a farm with her family outside of Kenyon and enjoys implementing homesteading practices.
She says her interest in homesteading really grew when she began to have children. Reher sees the importance of homesteading, saying, “I think that it is very important not only for feeding our family but also for my kids to see where their food comes from and appreciate the effort and love that goes into each and every bite.” Reher especially notes the benefits of freshly milled flour and was eager to share them with the community in her presentation. She noted that “fresh milled flour contains 40 out of the 44 essential nutrients for sustaining life. It is also high in fiber, is easier to digest, and has a lower glycemic index…[and] many people talk about stomach issues disappearing, skin problems clearing up, and improved overall energy and well-being when switching to fresh milled flour.” Not only does freshly milled flour contain many health benefits, but it can also be used in all types of recipes. Just like flour from the store, freshly milled flour can be used as a thickener in soups, gravy, and even ice cream. Freshly milled flour also makes wonderful bread, cookies, pancakes, and pasta.
Wheat berries can be purchased through several wholesale suppliers, including Azure Standard and Grand Teton Ancient Grains. If you are interested in starting the journey of making freshly milled flour, common mill brands include NutriMill and Mockmill.
Stay tuned to the Kenyon Public Library’s upcoming events to attend Amber Reher’s next presentations. Topics will include homesteading, health, and making food from scratch.
