Wheat flour is a common ingredient made by grinding wheat grains into a fine powder. It is primarily used in baking and cooking, providing structure and texture to various foods like bread, cakes, and pasta. The type of wheat used can affect the flour's properties, with hard wheat being high in protein and ideal for bread-making, while soft wheat is better suited for pastries.
There are different varieties of wheat flour, including all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and cake flour. Each type has unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific recipes. Whole wheat flour retains the bran and germ, offering more nutrients, while all-purpose flour is versatile for many culinary uses.