17 Must-Try Amaranth Recipes That Will Have You Going Gaga Over This New Trendy Grain (2024)

Quinoa who? The newest trend in healthful grains is amaranth, a gluten-free protein option that was first cultivated by the Aztecs. Not only is amaranth grain packed with protein, but it’s also full of calcium and antioxidants and makes an amazingly effective appetite suppressant. The most important health benefits of amaranth grain include its ability to protect the heart, boost the immune system, strengthen bones, and optimize digestion. Start reaping the benefits of an amaranth-rich diet with these recipes!

17 Must-Try Amaranth Recipes That Will Have You Going Gaga Over This New Trendy Grain (1)

Amaranth And Feta Phyllo Triangles

  • Melt 1/2 stick of butter in a skillet and pour half off to save for later.
  • Add 2 chopped leeks, 2 chopped garlic gloves, 4 ounces of chopped amaranth leaves, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 pinches of salt, and 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and cook over medium heat until the liquid evaporates.
  • Move the ingredients into a bowl and then add 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese and 2 eggs.
  • Next, defrost 4 16×12 inch sheets of phyllo dough, and cut them in half.
  • Brush the top with melted butter then fold in half, fill with the filling and 3 tablespoons of amaranth each, then fold a corner up into a triangle.
  • Press the end to seal, then brush with melted butter and top with parmesan cheese if you want, then cook at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes.

AMARANTH PATTIES

  • Sauté 1/2 diced onion and 3 minced cloves of garlic in olive oil for a couple minutes.
  • Add in a teaspoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of curry powder and cook for another minute.
  • Add the mixture to a pot with 1 cup of boiled amaranth, and add in a whisked egg as well. In a breading bowl, mix 2 cups panko bread crumbs, 1 cup parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup chopped parsley,
  • Then form the amaranth mixture into small balls and cover with the breading mixture.
  • Lay the breaded balls onto a tray lined with parchment paper and gently flatten them into patties.
  • Heat grapeseed oil (or peanut or vegetable) in a pan, and then fry the patties about 45 seconds on each side.
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AMARANTH FISH STICKS

  • Cut 2 fish fillets into “sticks,”
  • Then cover them in a beaten egg and then in 1/2 cup of amaranth, making a thick crust by patting the grains on with your fingers.
  • Heat up vegetable oil in a saucepan, and then cook the fish sticks over medium heat.

AMARANTH PANCAKES

  • In a bowl, sift together 1/2 cup amaranth flour, 3/4 cup whole-wheat flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda.
  • Separately, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 beaten egg, and 3 tablespoons melted butter, then stir in the flour mixture and let the batter sit.
  • Use the batter to make pancakes by cooking them in a pan on medium heat.
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AMARANTH AND QUINOA STUFFED PEPPERS

  • Boil 1/2 cup black quinoa and 1/2 cup amaranth.
  • Then combine them with a cup of edamame, a grated carrot, 2 chopped shallots, and 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds in a large bowl.
  • Season the mixture with 2 tablespoons brown rice vinegar, salt and pepper.
  • Use the mixture to stuff 4 bell peppers, place them on a baking dish along with 1/4 cup water and cover with foil.
  • Bake for about 40-50 minutes.

FIVE-GRAIN PORRIDGE

  • Get all the grains you need in the morning by combining them into a hearty porridge.
  • Fill a pot with 6 cups of water and then add in 1/2 cup of brown rice, 1/2 cup quinoa, 1/4 cup amaranth, 1/4 cup millet, and 1/4 cup wheat bran,
  • Bring to a boil and cook for 40-50 minutes. If you don’t have all those grains, just add more of another one.
  • In a skillet, cook a sliced apple, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons honey for about 3 minutes, until the apples are browned.
  • Top your porridge with the contents of the skillet, cooked coconut flakes, sea salt, bee pollen, and a drizzle of honey.
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AMARANTH BARS

  • Pop 8 ounces of amaranth in a hot skillet by adding a tablespoon at a time for about 15-18 seconds, transferring to a bowl when popped.
  • In a large saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons honey, 6 tablespoons agave nectar, and 6 tablespoons butter, and cook over medium heat for about 7 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Add the amaranth to the honey mixture with 6 tablespoons of sunflower seed, 6 tablespoons of pumpkin seeds, 1/2 cup of diced dried apricots, and 1/4 cup diced dried Mission figs.
  • Pour the mixture onto a nonstick pan, spread it out to the corners, and then let it cool and harden before you cut it into bars.

GRAPEFRUIT YOGURT PARFAIT WITH AMARANTH

  • Pop 1/4 cup of amaranth by putting the grains in a pan over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Spoon 1/4 cup of plain yogurt into the bottom of two glasses or jars,
  • Then add a few segments of grapefruit, a tablespoon of popped amaranth, 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted coconut, and 1 teaspoon honey.
  • Repeat this process to create another layer.
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BLACK BEAN, YAM, AND AMARANTH BURRITO

  • Cut 2 yams into bite-sized pieces and steam them in a steamer basket or saucepan for about 10 minutes.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and then cook a chopped onion, a chopped jalapeño pepper, and 1/2 a chopped red bell pepper for about 4 minutes.
  • Add in 2 chopped garlic cloves, stir for a minute, then add in the yams, 1 or 2 chopped tomatoes, a cup of salsa, 2 cups cooked black beans, 2/3 cup chopped cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice, then cook for another 3 minutes.
  • Finally, add a cup of cooked amaranth, a teaspoon of chili powder, a teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper.
  • Serve in tortillas of your choice and top with avocado and sour cream if you wish.

AMARANTH RISOTTO

  • Warm 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over moderately low heat,
  • Then add in a large chopped yellow onion, letting it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, pour 2 cups of boiling water over a cup of porcini mushrooms and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Then lift them out and squeeze any excess liquid into the bowl, cut up the mushrooms and reserve them for later.
  • Pour the water you soaked the mushrooms in into the pot of onions, along with 2 1/2 cups of cold water and 2 cups of amaranth.
  • Then cover the pot and bring it to a boil and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  • Then stir in a teaspoon of salt and remove from the heat.
  • In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • Then cook 3 chopped cloves of garlic, the porcini mushrooms, and 1 pound sliced mushrooms of your choice.
  • Add salt and a tablespoon of soy sauce and sauté the mushrooms for 8-10 minutes.
  • Then add 3 tablespoons of sherry and sauté for another 2 minutes.
  • Spoon the amaranth mixture into plates or bowls and top with the mushrooms.
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FRESH AMARANTH SALAD

  • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan and add fresh amaranth.
  • After a couple minutes of cooking, add a chopped shallot, 50 grams of cooked quinoa, 50 grams of toasted walnuts, and the juice of half a lime.
  • Season with salt and pepper and then serve.

AMARANTH CORN FRITTERS

  • Cook 1 cup of amaranth in 1 cup of water in a covered saucepan for 10 minutes.
  • Then remove it from the heat with the lid on, and remove the lid after 10-15 minutes and let it cool.
  • In a skillet, sauté a minced onion or shallot in olive oil, and then add 2 cups of sweet corn kernels and some salt.
  • Add the skillet’s contents to the amaranth, along with 1/2 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 3 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup of milk, and a tablespoon of chopped chives.
  • Then mix together until you have a thick batter.
  • Drop the batter in small batches on a skillet in grapeseed oil, and cook each side for about 3 minutes.
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COCONUT AMARANTH PUDDING

  • Cook 1/2 cup of amaranth in a can of light coconut milk and 4 tablespoons sugar for about 20 minutes.
  • Then let it cool.
  • Pour the mixture into serving dishes and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  • Once cool, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with fruit.

AMARANTH HOT CEREAL

  • In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup amaranth, 2 cups milk, and 1 cup water, then bring it to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and stir frequently for about 25 minutes.
  • Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cherries, 1/2 cup toasted chopped walnuts, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
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AMARANTH WALNUT COOKIE

  • In a food processor, put 4 ounces of walnuts and 2 tablespoons of sugar, then process until sandy-looking, which should take about 15 seconds.
  • In a medium bowl, mix together 3/4 cups of white whole wheat flour, 1/4 cup amaranth flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.
  • Beat 7 tablespoons of butter with a mixer until smooth, gradually adding a cup of sugar, then add an egg yolk, 1 tablespoon of brandy, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and beat for 30 seconds.
  • Reduce the speed of the mixer and beat in the nut mixture and the flour mixture.
  • Then cover the bowl and chill for at least 3 hours.
  • Pour 6 tablespoons of amaranth seeds into a bowl.
  • Then roll pieces of your dough into circles and then roll them in the amaranth seeds and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Make an indent with your thumb in each circle and place a walnut half in them.
  • Bake at 350 degrees for 17-18 minutes.

GREENS AND GRAINS SCRAMBLE

  • Beat 4 large eggs, and then whisk them together with a tablespoon of milk and some kosher salt.
  • In a sauté pan, heat olive oil and then add a chopped green onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Then, add a cup of chopped leafy greens and a half cup of amaranth, and sauté for 3-5 minutes.
  • Decrease the heat and pour in the egg mixture, gently stirring the eggs for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to co-mingle with the greens and grains.

AMARANTH POLENTA

  • Bring 6 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
  • Then reduce the heat to a simmer and pour in 2 cups of amaranth, whisking constantly. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of finely chopped kale and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and some more black pepper.
17 Must-Try Amaranth Recipes That Will Have You Going Gaga Over This New Trendy Grain (2024)

FAQs

Who should not eat amaranth flour? ›

For people with intolerance to lysinuric protein, eating amaranth may cause diarrhoea and stomach pain. Moreover, another side effect of lysine increase body's calcium absorption, and bring free, damage-causing amount of calcium in the body. So avoid taking large amounts of calcium and lysine at the same time.

What are the side effects of amaranth grain? ›

People who develop a rash, difficulty breathing, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction after eating amaranth should seek emergency medical care. Consuming large quantities of fiber may also cause bloating and gas in some people.

Is amaranth flour inflammatory? ›

The benefits of amaranth come from the fact that it's a complete protein that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It's also rich in fiber and has shown to fight heart disease and digestive problems.

What is the best way to eat amaranth grain? ›

If you're curious about how to cook amaranth, you'll be pleased to know that it makes for a delicious hot cereal or polenta! You can also use it to add a lovely texture to baked goods or homemade granola. With an earthy, nutty flavor, amaranth is perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner and every snack in between.

Why was amaranth outlawed? ›

In an attempt to exercise violent control and oppression, the Spanish banned amaranth and imposed cruel punishments on the Aztecs for growing or saving amaranth seeds. But amaranth didn't entirely disappear. For generations, it became the best kept secret in Mesoamerica.

Who should not take amaranth? ›

Special Precautions and Warnings

It is not known if using amaranth as medicine is safe or what the possible side effects might be. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if amaranth is safe to use as a medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Does amaranth raise blood pressure? ›

Amaranth

Eating whole grains like amaranth may help lower your blood pressure levels. Studies show that diets rich in whole grains may decrease your likelihood of high blood pressure. You could also try these other whole grains if amaranth isn't for you: whole oats.

Can you eat amaranth every day? ›

Also known as Rajgira or Chaulai, the leaves and seeds of this amazing plant are storehouse of protein, fibre and a variety of micronutrients. Those aiming to lose weight or keep their blood sugar levels in control can include amaranth in their daily diet.

Is amaranth healthier than quinoa? ›

While quinoa has proteins as good as 8 grams per cup, amaranth has 9 grams per cup. Amaranth has double the protein than rice or wheat, Makhija added. Quinoa has 3 grams of iron per cup and amaranth has 5 grams of iron in the same quantity which makes it a richer food, she points out.

Is amaranth good for hair? ›

Amaranth leaves have lysine, an essential amino acid that is needed for energy production and absorption of calcium. It also promotes hair growth and good skin. Those who suffer from hair loss or greying will benefit significantly from eating amaranth leaves.

Is amaranth good for eyes? ›

Healthy skin and vision: Amaranth has plenty of antioxidants including vitamin A that help keep the skin and eyes healthy.

Is amaranth good for anxiety? ›

Amaranth's magnesium content also plays a role in keeping your muscles and bones in peak condition, but that's not its only superpower. "Studies have also shown that magnesium helps to reduce PMS symptoms and helps to boost mood and relieve anxiety," says Zeitlin.

How to tell if amaranth is rancid? ›

If it isn't moldy, check to see if there is any odor coming from the amaranth. If it doesn't fall under either of those conditions, the taste can be off. It should be sweet and nutty. If it isn't, it may be rancid.

Why does my amaranth taste bitter? ›

Saponins. Saponins are extremely bitter in taste. Similarly to phytic acid, they can form complexes with proteins or minerals, such as zinc and iron, to inhibit absorption into the body. Since they are only present in small quantities in amaranth, they are characterised as low toxicity and don't pose any danger.

How to eat amaranth for weight loss? ›

This versatile grain can be cooked in liquids and eaten as a porridge or pilaf. It can even be popped like corn. But because of its strong flavor, you may like it best combined with other grains. For baking, amaranth flour must be combined with another flour, such as wheat, because it contains no gluten by itself.

Can you be allergic to amaranth flour? ›

ANAPHYLACTIC REACTION TO AMARANTH (AMARANTHUS PANICULATUS)

Systemic allergic reaction from Amaranth (Amaranthus paniculatus) allergy is very rare, with only one case reported a few years ago. None have been reported in the Western world.

Is amaranth bad for thyroid? ›

Amaranth is a gluten-free grain that is rich in selenium, a mineral that helps regulate thyroid hormone levels.

Is amaranth flour good for kidneys? ›

Incorporating some of the higher protein grains can help people on dialysis meet their protein goals. Whole grains with protein include amaranth, millet, quinoa, teff and some whole wheat pastas. Breads and cereals made from whole grains may also provide a significant amount of protein.

Is amaranth gut friendly? ›

Amaranth provides gluten-free protein, which can be consumed even by people with health conditions such as gluten allergy or celiac disease. Good for gut health: Both the seeds and leaves are rich in fiber. Fiber aids in the digestion system, prevents constipation, and maintains gut health.

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