Amaranth: The Amazing

So many times I mention amaranth and I get a funny look. Absinthe? No! Amaranth!

What is Amaranth?

Amaranth is an ancient grain harvested for thousands of years which and has several varieties. Legend has it it was so valuable in South America when the Spanish explorers arrived that it was used as a currency. As valuable as salt was back in the Roman times!

It is revered for its nutritional value. It is high in protein, rich in vitamins and full of antioxidants. For more on its benefits, click here.

Photo credit to Pierre Bamin, Thanks Pierre!

What Does Amaranth Look Like?

Thanks to Pixabay for the images. I have tried to grow amaranth, yet it did not grow past tiny sprouts. Will try again!

It looks like a tiny seed and can be found in several color varieties. It is smaller than quinoa and doesn't have the un-spiraling feature that you'll notice in quinoa when it becomes translucent and softer. Amaranth actually only absorbs a little water and maintains its shape and texture when boiled. I have heard you can pop it in a pan, so I tried it once. It's like tine popcorn, but not too sure it's worth the effort...unless you want to use it for texture in another dish.

However, this is all about amaranth and featuring amaranth only. I've seen many recipes but I've never been really tempted to try them. I experimented with it and found my favorite version is simply cooked like cornmeal/grits...about 1 part amaranth to 4 parts water until the water reduces and the grains are slightly tender. I season with my favorite herbs and add some bone broth for added nutrients. Onions and tomatoes really give this flavor. And an egg never hurt no one. This plate featured here is only with diced onion, tomato, green peppers, garlic, and a a few of my favorite herbs. I addd a slice of havarti to the bottom of the bowl and another to the top and put it in the broiler until it browns.

Enjoy!

Hope you enjoyed this and will enjoy trying it one day as much as I do. Cheers to great food full of life and love! Let me know if you try it!