Shop products for Amaranth 
For a quick side dish, steam amaranth in vegetable broth and serve it with toasted sesame seeds.
Amaranth, which originated in what are now Central and South America, is actually a seed from a broadleaf plant. It was a staple food among the Aztecs, who mixed it with honey and human blood and consumed it during worship rituals. Because it’s practically gluten-free, amaranth is a good alternative to wheat.
Varieties
Amaranth is used in cereals and in baked goods, such as crackers, cookies, and breads, and is available packaged as a whole grain or flour.
Preparation, uses, and tips
In baking, combine small amounts of amaranth with other flours. Or heat it in a heavy, dry skillet until the seeds pop, and serve it with milk and strawberries as a breakfast cereal. Or, steam amaranth with vegetable broth and serve it as a side dish with toasted sesame seeds. Steamed or boiled amaranth congeals as it cools, so it must be eaten right away.
Nutritional Highlights
Amaranth, 1 cup (195g)
Calories: 729
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrate: 129g
Total Fat: 12.7g
Fiber: 29.6g
*Excellent source of: Calcium (298mg), Iron (14.8mg), Magnesium (519mg),
and Folate (95.5mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.
Health benefits and concerns
Health benefits and concerns
for grains
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other grains.
Read about health benefits and concerns for grains for a full description.
