How to Cook Amaranth

Amaranth is a plant that grows in Asia, as well as Central America, and is a very nutritious food grain. It is mainly cultivated as a food grain, although the leaves of this plant can also be consumed. Amaranth grains are rich in protein and are gluten-free, proving them to be a very good option to those who have gluten intolerance. It is also rich in dietary fiber, and minerals like iron, manganese, potassium, and copper.

The most simple method will be to place them in a microwave safe bowl and microwave it on "high" for a few seconds. The seeds will pop and you will be able to enjoy healthy amaranth popcorn. Another way of cooking it is to boil it with water or chicken stock.

You can get different flavors by changing the liquid in which it is prepared.

Ingredients

• Amaranth grains, ½ cup
• Water, 1½ cup
• Salt, ½ tsp.
• Butter, ½ tsp.

Method
Add amaranth grains and water in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over the flame, add salt and let the water come to a boil. When the water in saucepan starts boiling, cover the saucepan with a tight lid and reduce the flame of the stove. After 25 minutes, remove lid and check the level of water in the saucepan.

Most of the water will be soaked and the amaranth grains will puff up. Stir the mixture slowly, and allow all the water to evaporate. When the mixture is a little thick, add ½ teaspoon of butter and stir to combine. Remove the cooked amaranth from flame and serve immediately.

Sometimes you might find that the grains after cooking are hard and not cooked through. This might be due to imbalance in the amount of water and grains. The ideal ratio of amaranth grains to water is 1:3. This will help you to prepare creamy amaranth.

Amaranth leaves are also highly nutritious and can be used in stir fries and salads.

Ingredients

• Amaranth leaves, 1 cup
• Leeks, 1 cup (sliced)
• Red onion, 1 (sliced thinly)
• Olive oil, 1 tbsp.

• Oyster mushrooms, ½ cup (sliced)
• Garlic, 4 cloves (minced)
• Green peppers, ½ cup (sliced)
• Sea salt, ¼ tsp.
• Soy sauce, 1 tsp.

Method
First wash the leaves in water and then chop them. In a wok, add olive oil and garlic. When the garlic turns golden-brown in color, add the red onions, sliced green peppers, oyster mushrooms, and leeks. Stir-fry over medium heat until they are cooked thoroughly. Add the chopped leaves and cook them until they change color. Add salt and soy sauce and combine well. Serve hot along with steamed rice.

Amaranth can also be prepared in many other ways to suit your taste. Add amaranth greens and grains to your daily diet to get its nutritional benefits.