Malt-O-Meal vs. Cream of Wheat: A Comparison
Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat are both popular cereals that have been enjoyed by many for generations. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will compare Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat in terms of ingredients, taste, texture, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
Both Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat are made from farina, which is milled wheat. However, Malt-O-Meal also contains barley, giving it a slightly different composition. Farina is refined and fortified to give it different properties and is used in a variety of porridges and savory dishes.
Taste
On its own, Malt-O-Meal has a mild wheat flavor similar to unsweetened oatmeal. The Malt-O-Meal brand offers a variety of flavors and textures to suit different tastes. It is often best served with fruit or added sugar to enhance its flavor. However, it’s important to note that adding too much sugar can affect its nutritional profile. Healthy alternatives such as fresh fruit, brown sugar and skim milk can be used for a more balanced meal.
Cream of Wheat, similar to Malt-O-Meal, has a bland taste. It can be described as softer and less grainy than Malt-O-Meal. Cream of Wheat has also introduced different flavors and versions to meet different consumer preferences.
Texture
The texture of Malt-O-Meal is lumpy and grainy due to its higher gluten content. It is made from ground wheat grains, which contributes to its unique texture. Whisking the porridge can help reduce the lumps, but it may still have lumpy pieces, especially if you use less water or whole milk.
Cream of Wheat, on the other hand, has a more fluid consistency and a smoother texture. This is achieved by using a finer blend of flour, which does not reduce the gluten content, but makes the porridge easier to eat.
Nutritional information
When it comes to nutritional information, Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat are very similar. In a one cup serving prepared with water, Malt-O-Meal contains approximately 125 calories, 4 g protein, 0.6 g fat, 26 g carbohydrates and 1 g fiber. The same serving size of Cream of Wheat contains about 133 calories, 4g protein, 0.5g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. It’s important to note that these numbers can vary when made with milk and other additives.
Bottom line
In conclusion, Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat are both delicious cereal options that offer different textures and flavors. Malt-O-Meal has a chunky and grainy texture with a mild wheat flavor, while Cream of Wheat has a smoother consistency. Both cereals can be customized with a variety of ingredients such as fruit, sugar and spices.
When it comes to nutritional information, Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat are fairly similar, but it’s important to consider the impact of additional additives like milk and sugar on their overall nutritional profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer the chunky texture of Malt-O-Meal or the runny consistency of Cream of Wheat, both porridges offer a convenient and nutritious breakfast option.
FAQS
What is the main difference between Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat?
Malt-O-Meal contains both farina and barley, while Cream of Wheat is made from farina only. In addition, Malt-O-Meal has a lumpy texture, while Cream of Wheat is known to be more runny.
Are Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat gluten free?
No, neither Malt-O-Meal nor Cream of Wheat is gluten free. Malt-O-Meal is made from flour, which contains gluten, and Cream of Wheat is made from wheat, which also contains gluten. If you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives, Cream of Rice is a possible option.
How can I improve the taste of Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat?
Both cereals can be customized with a variety of ingredients to enhance their flavor. You can add fresh fruit, sugar, jams, dehydrated fruit, frozen fruit, cinnamon, herbs and spices to your Malt-O-Meal or Cream of Wheat for a more flavorful and enjoyable breakfast experience.
Can Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat be prepared in different ways?
Yes, Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on regional variations and personal preferences. In the US, Malt-O-Meal is pre-packaged and can be mixed with milk, fruit and sugar. In other regions, Malt-O-Meal can even be used as a natural thickener in a variety of dishes. Cream of Wheat can also be customized with different ingredients to suit individual tastes.
Are there healthier alternatives to Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat?
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, you can try using fresh fruit, brown sugar, and skim milk instead of high-sugar, high-fat milk. In addition, Cream of Rice offers a gluten-free option that has a similar taste and texture to Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat.
What is the nutritional information for Malt-O-Meal and Cream of Wheat?
In a one cup serving prepared with water, Malt-O-Meal contains approximately 125 calories, 4 g protein, 0.6 g fat, 26 g carbohydrates and 1 g fiber. The same serving size of Cream of Wheat contains about 133 calories, 4g protein, 0.5g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary when made with milk and other additives.