Cooking whole grains, including whole farro, reduces this acid, but soaking reduces it even further making grains more nutritious and digestible. Soak farro in enough water to cover (and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to be even more effective) for several hours or overnight.

Should farro be rinsed before cooking?

1. Farro, pictured above right, is often covered in a dry, powdery coating that should be rinsed off before cooking. 2. Rice that's high in starch content, such as sushi rice and jasmine, should be rinsed to reduce stickiness.

Why is my farro chewy?

Farro is high in protein, fiber, and B Complex vitamins and it's pretty low in gluten. When cooked, farro looks a bit like barley but it has a chewier texture. That chewy texture remains even after long-cooking so it's great in soups and stews where it never gets soggy. That chewy texture also makes for tasty salads.