soft wheat
Definition
- Noun:
- A variety of wheat characterized by soft starch kernels: "soft wheat" refers specifically to a type of wheat (Triticum aestivum) whose kernels have a soft, starchy endosperm. This results in a lower protein content, particularly lower gluten strength, compared to hard wheat varieties. It is primarily cultivated for uses where a tender, crumbly texture is desired.
Usage
- Primary Use: The term "soft wheat" is used in agricultural, culinary, and industrial contexts to classify wheat based on kernel hardness and its subsequent best uses.
- Farmers in this region primarily grow soft wheat for the cookie and cake industry.
- The flour mill segregates soft wheat from hard wheat to produce different types of flour.
Examples
- Noun:
- Pastry flour is typically milled from soft wheat.
- The climate in the eastern states is more suitable for cultivating soft wheat.
Advanced Usage
- "Soft wheat flour": Flour milled from soft wheat kernels, often labeled as cake flour or pastry flour.
- For a delicate pie crust, a baker might choose a soft wheat flour.
Variants and Related Words
- Soft red winter wheat (n): A major subclass of soft wheat, planted in the fall and harvested in early summer, commonly grown in the eastern and southern U.S.
- Soft red winter wheat is often used for crackers and flatbreads.
- Soft white wheat (n): Another subclass of soft wheat, with a lighter bran color, often used for pastries, cakes, and Asian-style noodles.
- Soft white wheat produces flour ideal for making tender muffins.
Synonyms
- Pastry wheat: A term sometimes used interchangeably with soft wheat, emphasizing its primary culinary application.
- Low-protein wheat: A descriptive synonym highlighting a key characteristic of soft wheat.
Antonyms
- Hard wheat: A variety of wheat with hard kernels, high protein content, and strong gluten, used for bread and pasta.
- Bread flour is made from hard wheat, while cake flour is made from soft wheat.
Noun
-
wheat with soft starch kernels used in pastry and breakfast cereals
