Ideal spelt

Ingredients:

• 2 bay leaves
• 1.5 cups spelt
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter

Preparation:

1. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, add salt, and bay leaf. Meanwhile, place the spelt in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until golden brown, about 6 minutes. The grains will darken by one shade and release a nutty aroma.
2. Add the spelt to the boiling water and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm, 30-40 minutes, depending on the type of spelt. Drain thoroughly and discard the bay leaf.
3. Transfer the spelt to a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add sugar or butter and stir. If preparing the spelt in advance, transfer it while hot to a parchment-lined baking sheet to stop the cooking and cool. Then refrigerate in a tightly sealed container. It can be stored for up to 5 days.