On a hike through town the other day, my kids and I stopped at our favorite fruit market. I told them they could each pick out one thing while I shopped. My toddler did what toddlers do and crashed into things while simultaneously plucking everything she could reach off the shelves. But my preschooler stood thoughtfully for a moment and headed straight for her favorite treat -- the white-flour hamburger buns. I couldn't help but laugh. She's been raised on whole wheat grains and she loves them, but she sees white bread as a "treat."

So this week I decided to try out some spelt bread products. Spelt is an ancient grain that's related to wheat, and though it's been around for centuries, it's only recently been getting renewed attention in the United States. It's got an excellent flavor and texture and is chock full of B vitamins, especially riboflavin. Because spelt has a tough outer hull, it's resistant to disease and pests, so it's easy to grow without pesticides or chemicals. And spelt is thought to be more tolerable for those who have difficulty digesting wheat.

It also looks just like white bread. The hot dog buns we tried have a nice, nutty flavor and a texture that might remind you of English muffin bread. And the next time my little one wants her favorite "treat," I have a nutritious alternative on hand. Does anyone have any yummy spelt recipes to share?