What is it?

I'm a whole grain freak. There's almost always a loaf of whole wheat bread sitting on my counter, a package of rolled oats in the pantry and whole wheat pasta just around the corner. So when I came across some rolled wheat flakes, naturally, I had to try them. According to Bob's Red Mill, the brand of rolled wheat cereal I found, the flakes are made from wheat berries that have been steamed, dried and flattened - much like rolled oats (except for the fact that it's an entirely different grain).

When you cook the stuff, it smells a lot like hot bread, for obvious reasons, and has a lot less "slime" than oatmeal, as well as a heartier texture. If you're not a gooey-oatmeal-breakfast person, but still want a hot breakfast cereal, this may be the one to try.

How is it used?

It can be used as a hot breakfast cereal, as an addition to pastries and baked goods to add texture, fiber and flavor, or as an ingredient in granola.

Where can I buy it?

This package was found at the Bimbo bakery outlet (formerly Mrs. Baird's) on Houston-Rosslyn Road, where you can find a boatload of discounted whole grain breads and other products - my personal bakery heaven.

Recipe:

Rhubarb or Apple Squares - Courtesy of Bob's Red Mill

• The Basics