CEREALS
Grains may be considered perfect food in themselves, as they contain all the food elements in nearly right proportions. Rice is an exception to this, the starch being in excess.
In cooking grains in the form of porridges, they should be introduced into rapidly salted water, beating with a batter whisk so that the grains may be thoroughly mixed with the water and be free from lumps. In cooking coarse grains, as cracked wheat, pearl barley, hominy, etc., keep them boiling, stirring occasionally until the grain does not sink to the bottom, but hangs suspended in the water. If the inner part of a double boiler has been used, it may now be set into the outer boiler, which should be placed on the range where the water will boil rapidly. Replenish the water in the outside boiler from time to time with boiling water.
By setting the grain in boiling water, the indigestible outer portion or cellulose is more completely broken up, and the starch granules are more thoroughly acted upon by the water, the object being to cook the starch and the gluten as thoroughly as possible. If the grains are cooked in a double boiler, they will not need to be stirred after they are set, except when cooked in a very large quantity. The cooking should be continuous and the length of time varies according to the varying proportion of gluten in the grain. The larger percentage of starch, the shorter the time required in cooking. Grains combine nicely with fruits, and may be cooked or served with either fruit or fruit juices.
OATMEAL
- Oatmeal, 1 cup.
- Water, 1 quart.
Put water into a double boiler, place on the range, and when boiling add oatmeal. Boil until it thickens and finish in double boiler. Cook five hours.