Effortless Kamut In The Instant Pot

I have long been a proponent of cooking whole grains in pressure cookers, it is just so much easier. That is the idea behind this post all about Effortless Kamut In The Instant Pot. I will share everything you need to know to get started right away.

If you are used to cooking Kamut on the cooktop, which is what I used to do, let me show you how much easier and quicker it is to cook it in the pressure cooker. You won't look back!

What you need to get started

This process is going to be really simple, let me share everything you will need to get started.

• First, you will need raw Kamut berries. I buy mine from Azure Standard. You can also find it on Amazon if you prefer shopping there.
• Next, you will need a pressure cooker. I love my Instant Pot and use it ALL the time!
• Salt- Kosher salt is always my preferred salt, but you can use what you like.

Should I soak Kamut before cooking it?

Soaking Kamut before cooking is part of the process that can offer several benefits, but it's important to note that it's not mandatory. Here are some reasons for soaking Kamut before cooking, along with the acknowledgment that it's not mandatory:

1. Reduced Cooking Time: Soaking Kamut can significantly reduce the cooking time. The grains become rehydrated during soaking, which means they require less time to become tender when cooked.
2. Enhanced Texture: Soaked Kamut tends to have a more uniform and pleasant texture, with grains that cook more evenly, resulting in a better overall mouthfeel in your recipes.
3. Enhanced Flavor: Soaking can also enhance the natural flavor of Kamut, as it allows the grains to fully absorb the cooking liquids and any seasonings you use.
4. Prevention of Overcooking: Soaking reduces the risk of overcooking Kamut, which can lead to a mushy or overly soft texture, especially in a pressure cooker.

Pressure cooking soaked Kamut

1. Soak the Kamut grains in water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked Kamut thoroughly with fresh water.
3. Transfer the soaked and rinsed Kamut to the pressure cooker.
4. Add enough fresh water to cover the Kamut, using a water-to-kamut ratio of 2:1.
5. Close the pressure cooker lid, ensuring it's properly sealed.
6. Set the pressure cooker to cook on "High Pressure" mode for 30 minutes.
7. Allow the pressure to release all the way after the pressure release.
8. Carefully open the pressure cooker lid.
9. Check the Kamut for doneness; it should be tender with a slight chewiness.

Pressure cooking unsoaked Kamut

1. Pour Kamut into the Pressure Cooker: Place the unsoaked Kamut grains in the pressure cooker.
2. Add Water: Pour 2 ½ cups of water over every 1 cup of Kamut in the pressure cooker.
3. Close the Lid: Ensure that the pressure cooker's lid is properly sealed.
4. Set to High Pressure: Set the pressure cooker to cook on "High Pressure" mode.
5. Cook for 45 Minutes: Start the cooking process and allow the Kamut to cook for 45 minutes.
6. Natural Pressure Release: Once the 45 minutes of cooking are complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. This usually takes a few minutes.
7. Open the Lid: Carefully open the pressure cooker lid.
8. Check Doneness: Verify the Kamut for doneness. It should be tender but still have a slight chewiness. If it's not done to your liking, you can return it to pressure for a few additional minutes.

Ways to use the cooked Kamut berries

Salads: Kamut makes an excellent addition to salads, both cold and warm. Combine it with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful dressing for a filling salad.

Grain Bowls: Create hearty grain bowls by layering cooked Kamut with roasted or sautéed vegetables, protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu, and a tasty sauce.

Soup or Stew: Add cooked Kamut to soups or stews for extra texture. It can be a great substitute for other grains like rice or pasta in soups.

Pilafs: Use Kamut as the base for a flavorful pilaf by sautéing it with onions, garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices.

Casseroles: Incorporate Kamut into casseroles and one-dish meals for added texture.

Snack: Season cooked Kamut with herbs and spices, then roast or air-fry it for a crunchy snack.

Dips: Blend cooked Kamut with ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs to make a flavorful dip or spread.

Veggie Burgers: Combine Kamut with vegetables, beans, and seasonings to make homemade veggie burgers.

5 interesting facts about Kamut berries

Kamut, an ancient grain, traces its origins back thousands of years to the Fertile Crescent, encompassing regions like Iraq and Iran. Known as "King Tut's Wheat," Kamut holds historical significance, with traces found in Egyptian tombs.

The name "Kamut" finds its roots in the ancient Egyptian term "kamut," signifying "wheat." This name was trademarked specifically for unaltered, organic Khorasan wheat.

Kamut's unique distinction lies in its oversized kernels compared to modern wheat varieties, which contribute to its characteristic texture and flavor in culinary applications.

Embraced for its eco-friendly and sustainable attributes, Kamut is often cultivated through organic farming methods. It's recognized for its minimal soil impact compared to contemporary wheat crops.

One notable feature of Kamut is its genetic purity. It is one of the few grains that have not been hybridized, even through its long history.

More Kamut recipes

I have quite a few other Kamut recipes to share with you. It is a wonderful grain with so many possibilities! Be sure to click below for more details and recipes.

• Whole Grain Resources
• Pressure Cooker
• Kamut Flour