Here at Ancient Harvest, we’re not just about the quinoa. We love a variety of gluten-free ancient grains, as evidenced in the combination found in our Culinary Ancient Grains. Of these, amaranth appears to be having a moment in the culinary world; we’re starting to see it pop up on restaurant menus and in recipes with more and more frequency.
Tiny seeds packed with nutrients, amaranth amazes with its unique flavor and versatility. And whether you’ve tried it or not, you’re bound to be impressed by the number of different uses we’ve found for this Aztec “king seed.” Here are a few:
Pack it into a patty.
These Protein Power Lentils and Amaranth Patties from Gourmandelle show how great amaranth works as a binding agent in patties, cakes and burgers. Along with a wonderful recipe and stunning photos, the post gives us some fun facts about the “super-cereal.” For example, did you know that amaranth is over 8,000 years old?
Make it into a porridge.
Perhaps one of the most popular ways to use amaranth these days, a hot porridge is a delicious way to start a crisp fall morning. This Amaranth, Quinoa and Polenta Porridge from Will Cook For Friends features fresh berries, cinnamon and maple syrup.
Also, be sure to keep an eye out for our new Ancient Harvest Hot Cereals as they hit store shelves across the country. Each of five delicious flavors features a hearty blend of gluten-free rolled oats, quinoa, millet and amaranth sure to make a good morning even better.
Pop it.
These Popped Amaranth Peanut Butter Cups from My Little Celebration (adapted from Iowa Girl Eats) show that amaranth can actually be quite fun! When popped like corn or rice, it can be used as the base for a delicious snack or treat.
Bake it.
Amaranth flour can be found in some natural grocery stores, and it has become popular among gluten-free bakers. However, you don’t even need the flour to take advantage of the baking power of this seed! For example, these Amaranth Chips (served with Kiwi Cilantro Salsa) from Eat Spin Run Repeat use whole, raw amaranth.
Serve it as a side.
While you may not typically find amaranth served on its own, it is absolutely delicious blended with other gluten-free ancient grains. Our Spicy Curry Culinary Ancient Grains offers bold, delicious flavor that is easy to cook up as part of a quick weeknight meal. Try it in this Tandoori-Style Yogurt Chicken with Curried Ancient Grains (pictured), created by Wendy at Fit and Frugal for AncientHarvest.com.
Put it in a soup.
Seasonal and hearty, this Sweet Potato & Amaranth Soup from Go Bold With Butter offers an easy introduction to cooking with amaranth. It would add great texture and nutrition to nearly any soup, but we particular love this one for its warm fall flavors.
Looking for more gluten-free culinary inspiration? Be sure to follow us on Pinterest and also check out our recipes page.
