22 buckwheat recipes

The combination of black beans and sweet potato gives these brownies a moreish, moist quality. These are great for kids as they contain no added sugar or trans-fats (you may wish to omit the coffee and substitute cacao powder if serving to youngsters, though).

Fluffy banana buttermilk pancakes made with whole wheat pastry flour and toasted wheat germ. No butter or oil in the batter. Makes a dozen golden flapjacks in 30 minutes.

Vereshchaka is a traditional Ukrainian pork casserole braised in beetroot rassol with bacon, allspice, and pearl barley. Topped with sour cream and fresh herbs, it's hearty comfort food.

Traditional Polish holiday side dishes: golden fried cabbage with split peas, pearl barley, buckwheat, baked rice, breadcrumb-coated potatoes, and seasoned beans. A complete Wigilia spread.

Piroshki: golden Russian stuffed buns of soft yeast dough wrapped around savory beef, mushroom, or buckwheat fillings, then baked or fried. The portable hand pie of Russian home cooking.

Buckwheat noodles with Asian flavors. Nutty sesame oil coats the noodles spiked with crunchy veggies topped with an Asian inspired dressing. This combination tastes better cold than hot making it a perfect make-ahead dish that's ready when you are. Adding crispy coated tofu and it's a main-dish meal with punch.