Here are some ways you can use in your cooking:
1. As a breakfast cereal: Cook amaranth with water or milk to make a hot cereal. You can top it with fruit, nuts, and honey for added sweetness and flavor.
2. In salads: Add cooked amaranth to your salads for a boost of nutrition and texture. It pairs well with leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.
3. In soups and stews: Amaranth can be added to soups and stews as a thickening agent. It can also add a nutty flavor to your dish.
4. In veggie burgers: Amaranth can be used as a binding ingredient in veggie burgers. It helps hold the ingredients together and adds a crunch.
5. In baked goods: Amaranth flour can be used in place of wheat flour in baked goods. It adds a nutty flavor and makes baked goods gluten-free.
6. As a side dish: Cook amaranth with your favorite herbs and spices to create a side dish. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Here’s how to cook amaranth:
1. Rinse the amaranth seeds in cold water to remove any debris.
2. Add 1 cup of amaranth to 2 cups of water or broth in a pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The amaranth should be tender and the liquid should be absorbed.
4. Fluff the amaranth with a fork and serve it hot or cold.
Amaranth can also be cooked using a rice cooker or instant pot.
Here’s a recipe for amaranth and vegetable stir-fry:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of amaranth
– 2 cups of water or broth
– 1 tbsp of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth seeds in cold water and set them aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers and zucchini and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the amaranth, water or broth, salt, and pepper to the pan. Mix well and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the amaranth is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
In conclusion, amaranth is a versatile and nutritious seed that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s easy to cook and can be a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to add more protein and fiber. Try adding amaranth to your next salad, soup, or stir-fry for added nutrition and flavor.